THE HOLIDAY.

Auckland Star, Volume XXX, Issue 266, 9 November 1899, Page 5

THE HOLIDAY.

To-day was observed as a close holiday in Auckland, all the places of business being closed. Taking- advantage of the fine weather a large number of picnickers proceeded on the various excursion steamers to the beaches on the shores of the harbour and gulf, the boats being all well patronised. The Northern Co.'s steamer Wakatere took a good number down to the Thames, where the spring carnival of the Thames Cycling Club is being1 held. The s.s. Waitangi was also well tilled on her run to Coromandel, where the Friendly Society's gala is proceedingl. These vessels will return shortly after midnight. The Terranora ran down to Cowes' Bay, Waiheke, and the Wellington to Waiwera and Mahurangi Heads. The Devonport Ferry Company's steamers carried large numbers of passengers to the Lake, where the Salvation Army held a picnic, to Motutapu, Rangitoto, and Pine Island. The s.s. Durham, which madea fishing excursion to the Motutapu grounds, was so crowded that many ' who desired to go could not be taken. The Rose Casey was well patronised .on her trip to Putiki Bay, Waiheke, land the Kawau took a fair number to iKawau Island. The Helping Hand i Mission picnic to Awawaroa Bay, Waiheke, was well attended^ The Newton Gospel Mission held a. picnic, at Henderson, the train being well filled. The opening cruise of the Auokj land Yacht Club was held, this movning, tfce yachts of the Auckland, Parnell, and North Shore Clubs' assembling off the wharf at 10 a.m. and proceeding down the harbour in company. The Central Mission workers, and their friends and children' spent today in a picnic on Mr Brett's j?asdock at Lake Takapuna. The, gVittieringl was a large one, and the picknickers were conveyed round to the Lake Beach during the morning iiv one of. the Devonport Ferry Company's steamers. After lunch the afternoon. ;Was spent in races and! games of all. sorts. '.".-: The Newton Gospel Mission held a i large picnic at Henderson to-day, the | members and their families', and' I friends going out during the morning by special train to that favourite holiday resort. The Mission, brass band ■ accompanied the excursionists, and every preparation was made to ensure ! a successful and enjoyable "outing1.