HIS EXCELLENCY’S VISIT TO THE SOUTH.

Hawke's Bay Times, Volume I, Issue 26, 26 December 1861, Page 3

HIS EXCELLENCY’S VISIT TO THE SOUTH.

From the Special Correspondent of the Southern Cross. His Excellency arrived at Waiuku about 11 a.m. on Tuesday, the 10th inst., accompanied by his Private Secretary, Dr. Carter, the Hon. Mr. Fox, Mrs. Fox, Messrs. White and Munro, native interpreters, Major Speedy, and native chiefs. F. D. Fenton, Esq., and H.'Halse. R. M., were in waiting to receive His Excellency, and he was loudly welcomed by the assembled natives and Europeans. On the afternoon of the same day a substantial entertainment, got up under the superintendence ot H. Halse, Esq., was laid in a large pavillion tent erected by Messrs. Constable, Currie, Codlin and other settlers, decorated with the tree foliage and flowers, containing a Maori inscription signifying “ Unity and Peace,” and surmounted by the British ensign. Upwards of 150 natives and Europeans sat down to the wholesome fare and the natives seemed to value highly the “ unity ” thus evinced by the mingling of both races in one common repast. During the entertainment His Excellency walked up and down the tent, and chatted familiarly both with natives and Europeans, and and at the conclusion of the entertainment he addressed the assembly, when the most friendly responses were given by the native chiefs Ahipeue Maika, and others. A deputation of the settlers of Waiuku then waited upon His Excellency, when E. Constable, Esq., read and presented an address, which ilis Excellency acknowledged in the most courteous manner, and subsequently gave a written reply. On Wednesday His Excellency rode out with several of his suite, visiting the settlers and inspecting their cultivations ; he also visited Puru Puru, inspecting the Awaroa Creek at the landing-place there.

His Excellency seemed highly gratified with the reception lie met with, and his manner to every one will endear him in the memories of its inhabitants. He was entertained, during hia stay, at the Hotel, and expressed himself highly pleased with the exertions for his comfort made by Mr. and Mrs. Campbell. He left for Eohunga, Archdeacon Maunsell’s Station, Lower Waikato, early on Thursday morning, proceeded by canoe from Puru Piiru, and reached his destination about mid-day. Friday was very ivet. The rain fell heavily in the early part of Saturday. No actual business has as yet taken place at Kohunga beyond feasting. The korero takes place on Monday, the 18th.