DUKE AT ROTORUA

Greymouth Evening Star, 22 December 1934, Page 7

DUKE AT ROTORUA

WELCOME FROM MAORIS NATURE ALSO ELOQUENT [PER press association.] ROTORUA, December 21. Through country steeped in native tradition and history, and rich in mountain scenery, which spoke nature’s message in living language, the Duke of Glousester, to-day, traversed the 220 miles’ triangle from Gisborne to Rotorua, via Opotiki and Whakatane. Although the weather conditions were brilliant, the travelling was not fatiguing, and the Duke arrived at the famous thermal centre fit and obviously happy. Throughout his long journey he had received further concrete evidence that the people of New Zealand had the warmest regard for him, and were delighted at his presence among them. Exhilarating as had been the. spectacle of mountain scenery fringing, the outskirts of the Uruwera country, another surprise was awaiting the Royal party when Rotorua’s renowned lakes came into view. The golden sunlight lit up the waters like jewels. In accordance with Maori custom, His Highness was welcomed at the steps of the Rotorua Hotel by Sir A. Ngata and the paramount Chiefs, although the official ceremony is on Saturday. Thousands of Natives .have assembled for the function, which promises to rival the reception given the Prince of Wales.

As Native Minister, Mr. Forbes was welcomed to Rotorua to-day in typical Macri fashion. Replying, Mr. Forbes said the Government would do its best to carry on the land schemes started by Sir A. Ngata.