A BRIGHT WEEK

Radio Record, Volume VIII, Issue 20, 30 November 1934, Page 50

A BRIGHT WEEK

Many Parties for Visit of Italians to Wellington. WELLINGTON ’S sociai life last week whirled beneath the fluttering of the Italian flag on the occasion of the ~ visit of the Armando Diaz, the Italian light cruiser, which arrived in Wellington on Saturday morning, a little after eight o’clock. Her arrival was spectacular and colourful. Near the entrance to the harbour, she was welcomed by Italian fishing launches from Island Bay. Every launch was flying an Itatian flag along with the New Zealand ensign, and other gay bunting which made patches of vivid colour on the sparkling blue sea. while aeroplanes. from Rongotai circled overhead. Saturday was very hot and sunny, a typical Italian day, in honour of the long-awaited visitors. In the evening, one of the most brilliant receptions ever held in Wellington was given in honour of the captain and officers of the warship. This was held at the Hotel St. George, and the -host and hostess were the Consul for Italy, Cav. Dott. G. Formichella and Signora Formichella.. From the street kerbing ran a strip of scarlet carpet and crowds

of eager spectators watched, arriving in their limousines and taxis, the guests arrayed in all their glory, the men wearing uniforms and orders, and the women exquisite gowns. The floral decorations in the lounges were a constant source of admiration, arum lilies having. been dyed bright scarlet and emerald green, arranged in huge bowls among the pure white arums to give the atmosphere of the national emblem of the guests of honour. An element of hospitality pervaded the gathering, and many. languages were spoken among the guests during the evening. Supper was served upstairs in the dining-room at ten o’clock, where an excellent orchestra played. The buffet supper was an outstanding example of the art of the cuisine and the floral decorations in the Italian national colours were reflected in the emerald and ruby glasses. On, Monday evening the combined Italian societies of Wellington, under the patronage of the Cousul for Italy, gave a ball in.honour of Captain Jachino and the officers of the Armando Diaz, This was held in the Town Hall, and was another brilliant affair with gorgeous frocking of the women and the uniforms of the men. Poi dances and Maori songs by a troupe of Native girls were featured during the evening The floor was crowded with dancers who were served with supper and light refreshments at the rear of the main hall. . During the week cocktail parties and receptions were given on both shore and cruiser and Wellington experienced one of the brightest weeks, socially, it has had for some time.