SAMOAN TRIP.

Marlborough Express, Volume LIIII, Issue 48, 26 February 1920, Page 5

SAMOAN TRIP.

ARRIVAL AT RAROTONGA.

LECTURES ON BOARD SHIP

TPrksh Association.] (Received Feb. 25, 10,20 p.m.) RAROTONGA, Feb. 21. The Parliamentary party arrived at Rarotonga at 2.30, passing the Auckland-bound Talune at noon. T3ie Mokoia proceeds $o -night to Mangaia, where to-morrow will i o spent in inquiring into trade requirements. The itinerary has been slightly changed, and th^ -.party, will arrive back in Auckland on March 21st; . .: The-Eton.. Mr Thompson, in a lecture on "Life in the Sea,"' said that the solution of the fish supply in New Zealand consisted in better distribution rather than in provision, ; for trawlers. Ample. . fish : would L-e caught by private eiiitermuse if, a la rger market were reached by -imi proved transport, :HV condemned the railway depot, and urged faciliI ties for utilising the by-products. He suggested that meal manufactured from coarse fish was suitabler for calf-raising. . - Dr Chesson this morning, dealt with -tnsect pests and the necessity for ! drainage and other schemes to combat danger. The weather is sultry to-day. The first impression of Rarotqnga was delightful, with its high, ragged hills and cocoanut plantations covering the foreground. The town of Ahaura is hidden by trees. The remains of the Maitai were seen on the reef on arrival. ■• . The party were lightered ashore late in the afternoon, and the band played "See the Conquering Hero Comes." They were .welcomed by Makea and other Arikis.'.".'"1 Sir James Allen responded. He announced that they wotild return on Thursday .and f.tay for two days. There., was a great display- of native dancing and the school children sang. Sir James Allen promised that special consideration would be given to education. - ■ A sumptuous feast was prepared, and practically the whole of the European and native population were present, and combined in the welcome. The visitors were greatly impressed with the precision of the native dances, the striking costumes of the different tribes, and the generally festive appearance of the settlement. The Mokoia will sail for. Mangaia to-night, returning on Thursday" to receive European hospitality and to inquire into general requirements.