NEW ZEALAND TROOPS

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21188, 10 August 1940, Page 8

NEW ZEALAND TROOPS

THE OPENING CEREMONY “ KIA ORA” EXPRESSED (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received August 10, 12.45 p.m.) LONDON, Aug. 9 Mrs Winston Churchill opened the New Zealand Forces’ Club in London. She recalled a visit to New Zealand and paid tribute to the troops, which she had seen training in southern England. She wished the club good luck with the Maori words, “ Kia Ora.” Mr W. Jordan, High Commissioner, welcomed Mrs Churchill. Lord Caldecote, Major-General Freyberg, Lady Ferguson, Sir lan Hamilton, diplomatic representatives of Norway and Brazil, hundreds of New Zealand Navy, Army and Air Force members and civilians were present. Mr Jordan handed over the club to Major-General Freyberg. The latter, in a speech expressed satisfaction at the progress of the troops’ training. He said they had three full-scale exercises last month. The course covered 100 miles, and the men were six days afoot in full battle equipment. The ceremony was broadcast to New Zealand. The club is splendidly equipped. A photograph of the Rt. Hon. P. Fraser, superimposed on a plaque of Signor Mussolini, is embedded in the concrete entrance hall.