THE HOLIDAY.

Auckland Star, Volume LII, Issue 25, 29 January 1921, Page 6

THE HOLIDAY.

RACES, SHOW, AND REGATTAS.

As usual, Auckland's anniversary day was observed as a close holiday. The shipe on the waterfront made a line display of flags in addition to those on public buildings in the city. Aucklanders are noted for the manner in which they let themselves go for holi-day-making and as Anniversary Day is the last vacation before public schools resume, there were numerous family picnics and excursions by water, as well as train. Advantage was taken by many of the opportunity kindly afforded to inspect H.M.s. Chatham and H.M.s. Veronica.

The leading features of the day were the Auckland regatta, races at Devonport, Hamilton regatta, and a very successful Agricultural and Pastoral Show at Helensville. All-day matches were held at Eden Park and Remuera, under the auspices of the Auckland Cricket Association. The bowlers also held an all-day tournament on the various greens. Sports meetings were also held in various country districts.

WATER EXCURSIONS. Despite the uncertain appearance of the weather in the morning the wharves presented a busy scene at an early hour with the passing to and fro of picnickers bent on spending an enjoyable day at Auckland's numerous and pretty- beaches. The regular ferry services to Devonport, Birkenhead and St. Heliers were well patronised, while the boats running to the further reaches of the harbour were also leaving the wharves well filled with happy excursionists. A ferry steamer ran at frequent intervals from the Queen's Wharf to the flagship, the schooner Huia, and to the Caliope Dock, where a host of attractions in the way of side shows and swimming events were provided. The same steamer also let down passengers for the men-o'-war, H.M. sloop Veronica and H.M.s. Chatham which were opened to the public. During the day a large number of people availed themselves of the opportunity of inspecting these vessels.