AT RAROTONGA.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 99, 29 April 1933, Page 11

AT RAROTONGA.

VICE REGAL PARTY.

IMPRESSIVE RECEPTION.

LOYALTY TO BRITISH CROWN.

(By Radio.—Special to Tress Association.)

RAROTONGA, Thursday.

After a calm trip from Pago Pago, H.M.s. Diomede, with the GovernorGeeral, Lord Bledisloe, and Lady Bledisloe, arrived at Rarotonga at 7 a.m. and anchored in the roadstead.

The Resident Commissioner for the Cook Islands, Judge H. F. Ayson, called on his Excellency, who landed at 10 o'clock and was received by the commissioner and officials, a guard of lioxour being provided by returned soldiers. An official reception followed, and a loyal address was presented on behalf of the arikis, chiefs and people.

Lord Bledisloe, replying, recalled that Rarotonga used to be known as "Queen Victoria's youngest child," as the Cook Islands were the last territories annexed during her reign. The inhabitants ever since had been unswervingly loyal to the British Crown. His Excellency conveyed a special message from His Majesty the King to the people of the Cook Islands, assuring them of his earnest care for their well-being and happiness.

Lord Bledisloe said that he wanted them to realise that New Zealand always took the deepest interest in their welfare. The Government was always ready and anxious to help them in any way that might prove to their advantage. Good sanitation in N the islands and good education for thei? children were of the utmost importance. His Excellency referred to the effects of the prevailing low prices in the world's markets, urging the producers to endeavour to improve the standard of quality of their products, especially bananas and oranges, the best of which could be raised only if the plantations were properly cultivated and managed on up-to-date lines.

Subsequently their Excellencies proceeded to the .Residency and went for a drive round the island. In the afternoon a garden party was held in the beautiful grounds of the commissioner's residence. The weather was dull but fine after rain. There was a large gathering of representatives of all eections of the community, including the leaders of the Maori people. Those present were presented to their Excellencies, who mingled freely with the guests and enjoyed talks on affaire of mutual interest. The function wae carried through with great cordiality. This evening their Excellencies will attend a citizens' ball.