IN SOUTH ISLAND

Hawera Star, Volume XLVI, 9 March 1927, Page 5

IN SOUTH ISLAND

ROYAL PARTY’S TOUR.

FAREWELLS AT MIDNIGHT. DEPARTURE FROM WELLINGTON. IJiY rKI.KQBAI’B —PRESS ASSOCIATION.' WELLINGTON, March 9. Despite the late hour, a large crowd gathered on the wharf at midnight to see the last of the Royal party. The Duke and Duchess appeared' on the deck and waved farewells as the ship hacked out amid great cheering, which Mas renewed when the Duchess reappeared after the awning had been' removed and received another greeting and hearty cheering. The Renown then moved into the stream and left early this morning for Picton. CEREMONIES AT BLENHEIM. BLENHEIM, March 9. The morning broke dull and threatening, and to ere was every prospect of gain. People early gathered at VVaterlea, and the route of the Royal procession wa s lined by a large crowd. Shop fronts were - decorated lor the occasion noth, bunting and evergreens. The Duke and Duchess of York are assured of an enthusiastic welcome. Prior to the arrival of the Royal party at Wiiterlea, the- guard of honour formed by a detachment from B Company, First Battalion Nelson, Marlborough. and 'West Coast Regiment, under the command of Major W. T. Churchward, paraded with ilie King’s colours, which were presented to the ■old volunteers after their return from Siouth Africa, , and hafr-e the South African battle honours on them. When the colours reached the parade ground the assembly was called to attention by Lieut.-Colonel Gray, and civilians stood bareheaded and the military came to the salute until the colours were lowered. The ceremony was impressive and unusual. No fewer, than 30 motor-cars will be used to transport the party to Nelson. A fleet of eight new Government cars, all of English manufacture, arrived by the Tamahine on Monday in charge of Mr. R. W. Simpson, the Government chauffeur. These cars include tne Royal cars.