NEW ZEALAND'S FOURTH CONTINGENT.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXI, Issue 55, 6 March 1900, Page 5

NEW ZEALAND'S FOURTH CONTINGENT.

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.)

WELLINGTON, this day

The South Wairarapa detachment of the Fourth Contingent received an enthusiastic send-off from Greytown, whei'e they were entertained at a ban-_ quet, at which upwards of 300 of the leading residents of the district were present. The reunion was characterised by intense patriotism. The scene at the- railway station was very stirring. The cheers of the crowd mingled with the music of the bands and the singing of 'the National Anthem by the school children. On their arrival in Wellington they were welcomed by Lieut.-Colonel Collins and other officers of the Defence Department, and they proceeded to the camp at Newtown. .The llorowhemia section received a similarly cordial farewell at Levin, .the occasion being a red letter day in the annals of that usually quiet locality. The s.s. Gymerie, selected to convey the Fourth Contingent to South Africa, makes Wellington the first port of call. .When fitted by Mr G. Daniell she will proceed to Port Chalmers with the Northern sections, and embarkingthe Southern representatives is expected to finally leave New Zealand about the. 17th.

DUNEDIN, Monday

The final selection was inn tie tonight of the men for the contingent. The officers after submitting the men to the tests, selected 126. Of the remaining 31 the task was left to the committee, as. the men were so equal that no choice could be made by the officers.

WELLINGTON, Monday

Mr Daniells, of the Union Company, who has fitted up the previous transports from New Zealand, is busy at work arranging the fittings for the Oymeric, which is to carry the Fourth Contingent. The vessel is expected here, in a. few days, and will embark the North Islanders before going on to Port Chalmers.