SPECIAL SERVICE SQUADRON

Dominion, Volume 18, Issue 193, 10 May 1924, Page 6

SPECIAL SERVICE SQUADRON

VISITS TO EAST COAST PORTS i (by telegraph—Press association.) Napier, May 9. The Special Service Squadron, with the exception of the Repulse, arrived at 8 a.m., and departed at 10 a.m. The city was full of visitors, and the roads leading to the breakwater were blocked by cars for over a mile, traffic being itnixissible for two hours. About 6000 children were taken round the warships, which anchored a mile out from the shore, preventing close inspection by 40,000 people. Cisborne, May 9. H.M.S. "Repulse, of the Special Service Squadron, arrived off Gisborne at 8 a.m. to-day. A welcome was extended to the captain, officers, and crew by the Mayor and chairman of the Harbour Board. The day was beautifully fine. Hundreds of school children and 'adults were taken on lighters aboard the vessel, and spent a thoroughly enjoyable time. The Repulse left at 2 o’clock to steam slowly outside Wairoa, and then to join the remainder of the squadron at 5 o’clock. 35 miles from Gisborne, and proceed to Auckland direct. Arrangements have been made for a searchlight display to be given by the squadron as the vessels pass up the East Coast to-night. Dunedin, May 7. H.M.S. Dunedin sailed at 6.50 this morning. The plan to join the Dauntless off Otago Heads was abandoned, and each cruiser is proceeding independently, joining up with the others outside Auckland Heads.