WOUNDED SOLDIERS' OUTING.

Otago Witness, Issue 3384, 22 January 1919, Page 42

WOUNDED SOLDIERS' OUTING.

MAORI CENTENARIAN AS WAITRESS. Invalid soldiers to tho number of about 40 from tho Duncdin Hospital and the Convalescent. Heme at Montecillo were treated to an outing at Puketeraki on Saturday. The men were taken out in nine motor cars, arriving at their destination about midday. Tho weather was excellent, and the hospitality extended to the visitors by tho residents of Puketeraki and Karitane made the outing most enjoyable. The errangements for the entertainment of the soldiers were all that could be desired, and those in charge spared no efforts to promote the happiness of all concerned. On their arrival at tho Huirapa Hall the men were warmly welcomed by Mr Ellison, who expressed tho pleasure the residents derived from entertaining those who had suffered in the Empire's cause and the hope that the men would soon be restored to health. An excellent lunch was provided, and the soldiers were not slow to show their appreciation of it. A number of Maori women acted as waitresses, and it is worthy of note that Mrs Ria Tikini, a lady of 108 summers, assisted in the task. When justice had been done to the good fare provided, the visitors were entertained by the local Maori residents. Amongst the items were a canoe and a. poi dance, and these were enjoyed so well that encores wero insisted upon. Mr Henry Parata briefly addressed the men, and extended to them an invitation to visit Puketeraki whenever practicable. The ears were provided by members of the Otago Motor Club, and tho thanks of all concerned are due to Mr H. Halliday for making tho necessary arrangements for the enjoyable outing. The_ men were brought home via the Warrington road, and arrived in town about 6 o'clock.