WINTER EXCURSIONS TO THE SOUTH

Gisborne Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1519, 29 July 1905, Page 2

WINTER EXCURSIONS TO THE SOUTH

SEAS. It is pleasing to note that tho efforts of tho Union Company to familiarise tho pub'ic of Now Zaaland with the beauty spots of tho Pacific Islands by" means of regular winter excursions are success.

The Manapouri, which sailed on Tuesday, the 25th inst., had a good passenger list, the passengers having been booking in all parts of Hew Zealand, which shows that the interest in the South Seas, instead of being confined as in tho past to Auckland only is extending throughout tho colony. It is to be hoped that this interest will be maintained, as apart from the pleasure of an extending tour there are fields for business men to exploit and thus secure for Hew Zealand tho important and increasing Island trado. For many years, apart from the few associating with the one-time Island trading schooners, little was known of the beautiful lelands so rich in verdure, tropical fruits and scenic beauties that lie so adjacent to our shorts, but the opening up I of tho Island trade by modem steamers with every convenience is fast removing the ignorance that existed, and tho efforts ! of the Union Company are worthy of all support. To popularise the round trips exceptionally low rates are announced, thus placing the bulk of the public in a position to visit the “ Summer Isles of Eden.” This year the excursions are be. ing run by the fino steamer Manapouri, which vessel has recently been expressly refitted for the Island trade, and tho new twin scrow steamer Havau. The latter made a trip, the Coastal service shortly after fier arrival in the colonies, and won great encomiums from the public for the excellence of her passenger accommodation and her qualities as a sea boat, and she sails on her next voyage from Auckland on the 22nd of August, with, we hope, a full complement of passengers,