AN INTERESTING EXHIBIT.

Press, Volume LI, Issue 15268, 3 May 1915, Page 2

AN INTERESTING EXHIBIT.

OF FUR AND HAIR SEAL SKINS,

FROM SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS.

Mr Joseph Hatch, of Invcreargill, who is well-known in connexion with the Macquarie Island oil industry, is at present on a visit to Christchurch, and is staying at the Federal Hotel. It is not generally known that for ovei fifty years Mr Hatch has closely followed the hair and fur seal skin trade, hut nevertheless it is a fact. He is the only surviving son of the late Mr J. J. Hatch, wholesale furrier, of London, and prior to coming to New Zealand, he obtained a thoroughly practical knowledge of the business. A representative of "The Press" called on Mr Hatch on Saturday last, having hoard that his mission to Christchurch was in connexion with tha development of a market for the skins obtained by him from tho Islands of the South Pacific. Mr Hatch explained that he had obtained a largo supply of both hair and fur seal skins. A number of these skins were being dressed in London, and the opinion was expressed by experts at Home that they were . of exceptional quality. For tho manufacture of • ladies' coats, necklets, sets of stoles and muffs, the skins almost equalled those obtained from Canada, while the price is fully a third lees, as there is no duty on the actual skins returned, dressing exceptod. Apart from tho saving thus effected, the purchaser had tho advantage of knowing that a cenuine fur skin was being obtained. The samples of the skins that Mr Hatch has with him are certainly sufficient to convince one of the fairness of all that he claims for them. A number of pairs of men and women's slippers, made from hair seal skins, are exhibited by Mr Hatch. From this class of skin motor rugs and coats, fishing coats, etc., are being manufactured, and there is even? prospect of a big. trade developing in this direction. An invitation is extended the general public to inspect the furs and manufactured goods at the Federal Hotel. Ladies particularly should be interested in tho fur s*al skins, as arrangements may be made to have their fur garments manufactured from these genuine skins. Then there is the added satisfaction that a local industry is being deservedly supported. Mr Hatch's visit is confined to a few days. To each caller a series of very fine views of Macquarie Island oil industry will be presented. o