RAROTONGA’S CHARMS

Dominion, Volume 26, Issue 183, 1 May 1933, Page 8

RAROTONGA’S CHARMS

Rare Entertainment for Vice-Regal Visitors HARMONY AND COLOUR (Special to Press Association by Radio.) (Received April 29, 6.30 p.m.) Rarotonga, April 28. Their Excellencies Lord and Lady Bledisloe spent a delightful and busy day, being entertained in a most hospitable manner by the loyal inhabitants of Rarotonga. In the morning a visit was paid to Avarua school, where more than 1000 children from the live local schools assembled. A tumultuous welcome was given their Excellencies by the children, who were addressed by Lord Bledisloe. An entertainment was given by the pupils, the programme being unique in the experience of the visitors, for variety, cleverness, and humour. Their Excellencies received a number of presents from the children, principally carvings and handwork, some of it revealing precocious genius. The big function of the day was a combined Maori reception, arranged by the leading chiefs, who combined forces for the occasion. The ceremony was held at King Makea’s palace and was attended by a great crowd of Rarotongans and practically all the European community. Their Excellencies were welcomed in the customary Maori manner, and the presentation of numerous mats and other gifts followed, some coming from remote islands of the group with messages of loyalty and affection.

A Maori choir of girls and youths, wearing chaplets of flowers, sang at intervals. Their performances were sometimes accompanied by solo dances. Dinner was served with almost prodigal generosity, garlanded guests having the opportunity of tasting dishes prepared by natives, and finding them fit for epicures. The decoration of the pavilion was carried out on lavish lines, the materials used being flowers, fruits, and foliage characteristic of the Cook Islands.

It was a dazzling colour scheme, with red, gold, white, and green, the predominating effect being a scene of flamboyant beauty which would have delighted any gathering in any part of the world. Native dances, Introducing characteristic movements, with drum accompaniment, followed in rapid succession, the dancers being gaily garlanded and dressed.

Lord Bledisloe expressed appreciation of the people’s loyalty, harmony, and abounding generosity. As a mark of their Excellencies enjoyment of the delightful music he presented a cup, or other trophy, for competition among the Cook Islands choirs. The visit will have excellent results among the European and Maori communities, who have exhibited the utmost cordiality toward their Excellencies. H.M.S. Diomede sails for Auckland to-morrow.