WARSHIP AT MANGONUI

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22845, 28 September 1937, Page 10

WARSHIP AT MANGONUI

H.M.S. WELLINGTON FETED GREAT PUBLIC INTEREST [by TELEGRAPH —OWN correspondent] MANGONUI, Monday A ilvo dayß' visit by the escort vessel Wellington has been a festive occasion for the district since the warship arrived hero on Wednesday morning, for it was the first occasion since 1895 that a warship, had visited the port. It was in that year that H.M.S. Goldfinch lav in the harbour. The visit of the Wellington was, therefore, of great ifiterest to the community of Mangonui and the Far North. The vessel was boarded on arrival by members of local bodies, who welcomed Commander G. N. LoristonClarko and his officers and men, who, when thoy came ashore in the afternoon, were welcomed in characteristic Maori fashion. In the evening they were tho guests of honour at a dinner given by tho Mangonui Cricket Club, and later of the Civic League, whoso members tendered them a ball. During .their stay of live days in port Rugby and Soccer teams from tho Wellington played matches with local teams at Kaitaia. where tho officers and inon were afterward entertained at dinner by tho Kaitaia Beautifying Society. Dances were provided each night at Mangonui, and in tho daytime golf, shooting matches, sightseoing tours and other forms of entertainment were arranged. The warship was thrown open for inspection, and upward of 400 school children from all parts of tho district visited it. Yesterday afternoon over 500 people, somo of whom travelled considerable distances, inspected the ship. The Wellington said at 7.30 o'clock this morning for Whangaroa, wliero she will stay for a period of fivo days.