WHANGAREI.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIV, Issue 216, 10 September 1903, Page 2

WHANGAREI.

WHANGAREI, Tuesday.

With the approach of the finer and warmer weather we are receiving a pie tZra of amusements. There is billed for this week do less than three entertainments of varied 'class. The annual Masonic ball, E.C., to to take place on Thursday. This, as usual, promises to be a very brilliant function A very large number of invitations have been sent out and accepted. The building trade is still brisk, and at the present time it is estimated that there are at least twenty houses and buildings in course of construction or contemplated. The 'Baptist Tabernacle is on the high way towards early completion, ana it is anticipated that it will be ready for occupation by the Baptist community during the .early part of October, when it will be opened by Pastor Chirk, of the Auckland Tabernacle. The new building is of a handsome' appearance, in the modern lonic style of architecture, and of ample accommodation for present needs. . The Anglican community are looking forward to the visit of His Lordship Bishop Neligan, who is expected to be in Whangarei on the 22nd and 23rd of the month, and preparations to fitly welcome His Lordship are now in progress. I understand there are upwards of 60 candidates for the rite of confirmation, many of whom are native children, who are being prepared by the Rev. Raurangi Marsh, the native clergyman. The adherents and supporters of the Presbyterian Church held a most enjoyable social on Friday evening, when despite the very Inclement weather, the attendance was very good. An excellent programme consisting of vocal and instrumental items was gone through and highly appreciated. Mr Perham, the water power expert, sent to Whangarei by the Public Works Department; accompanied by Mr Dicksou, of this Department, has visited and inspected the various waterfall* in this vicinity, and reports that with the exception of the Great Wairua Falls, there is nothing to warrant the Government taking them in hand at present, but is convinced, that immense power is available from the Wairua Falls, and will recommend that Mr Hancock be instructed to visit these, and it is arranged that Mr Perham accompanies Mr Hancock on his tour of inspection during October. The Marsden Mounted Rifles' monthly I parade was held on Saturday, but owing to ' the inclement weather the attendance was :ot as good as usual. The company was under the command of Sergt.-Major Murray, who passed those present through the new squad and musketry drill. The Philharmonic Society have in active preparation the opera "Patience." The attendance is very large, and the principal parts have been allotted. Mr J. R. Keyburn wields the baton with his usual skill. ■ The opera is expected to be ready lov the public presentation during the month of December.

(By Telegraph.—Press Association.)

WHANGAREI, this day.

A largely attended meeting of the shareholders of the Whangarei Co-operative Steamship Company was held last night. The directors were in favour of the purchase of a steamer when sufficient capital is available. Eight provisional directors and Mr James Harrison were elected after a prolonged meeting and heavy, voting.