VICEREGAL CRUISE

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LX, Issue 18068, 20 April 1933, Page 7

VICEREGAL CRUISE

DIOMEDE AT VAVAU IDEAL CONDITIONS (Special to Press Assn. —By .Radio.) H.M.S. DIOMEDE, April 19. A visit to Vavau Island was made by Th.eir Excellencies, H.M.S. Diomede entering the famous harbor yesterday morning. Conditions were ideal throughout the day, and a good opportunity was afforded to explore what is recognised as the most beautiful island of the Tongan group. Many charming scenes greeted them as the warship steamed up the harbor to the town of Neiafu, which is the port, and is the residence of the Governor. The town is beautifully situated overlooking the harbor, and has a quite modern appearance. A cordial tvbeption was extended to tho visitors bv the native chiefs, local residents, and hundreds of natives, who were in picturesque attire. Characteristic sours and nances were given with all the charm and girac© of the lighthearted islanders, their delightful entertaintainmeilt lasting some hours. Launch excursions were made to Swallow Cave on the coast, and to Kapa Island. ■ This lovely spot is famous all over the world. The visitors were thrilled by th 6 unique experience. Their Exiellencies were entertained at dinner by the oflicers of H.M.S. Diomede) who welcomed their guests with diverting kava ceremonies. > Dinner was followed’’ by amateur theatricals, m wliich topical sketches of highly-amusing descriptions were presented. H.M.S. Diomede left Yavau at < o’clock this morning, and is due at Samoa to-morrow