CREEMASONS IN AUCKLAND

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 13745, 9 May 1908, Page 6

CREEMASONS IN AUCKLAND

Garden party at government HOUSE. Though the session of the Masonic Grand Lodge of New Zealand has concluded, large 1 numbers' of the Southern delegates are still in Auckland. Others have profited by the opportunity to extend their holiday trip as far as'Rotbrua. • The Auckland | brethren have been, lavish in their hospitality to the visitors. Yesterday morning brakes were placed at their disposal, and j a numerous party were driven out to Cornwall Park, returning to town by way of Green Lane, Reriiuera, and Parnell. In the afternoon His Excellency Lord Plunket (Grand Master) and Lady Plunket entertained the local and visiting Masons at a garden, party , at Government House. Their Excellencies -received their numerous guests on the "terrace fronting the house, and by 3.30 the large lawn below, where rattan ' chairs and > settees were placed, presented a charming picture, the many beautiful toilettes worn by the lady guests showing to much ' advantage in the picturesque environment. As considerably over a thousand guests put in an appearance the ordeal of hand-shaking must have been no slight tax to Their Excellencies. Afternoon tea and other delicacies were served in the ballroom, which was handsomely carpeted for the occasion, and a large staff of. professional waiters, outside, those of the vice-regal household, were kept busy ministering to the wants .of the company. . In their obviously pleasing task of entertaining, Their Excellencies ..were ably seconded by Captain the Hon. Gathorne Hardy and Lvon, AD.C.'s, and also by Mrs. Waterfield-and Miss Creswell. The band of the Ist' Mounted Rifles played selections on the lawn, which were much appreciated. - The round of Masonic entertainments will conclude, this afternoon with a harbour excursion.' : ; • / ' ••_ ' — ■