A FRIENDLIER SPIRIT.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 August 1925, Page 9

A FRIENDLIER SPIRIT.

ENTERTAINING SAILORS. VISIT OF AMERICAN FLEET. HOSPITALITY AT AUCKLAND. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Auckland, Last Night. Another perfect day favoured the fleet festivities. The spirit of friendliness, which has been growing steadily as the passage of the days makes for better acquaintance, was more than usually manifest in the holiday throngs and happy gatherings seen throughout the city. Many of the sailors have made good friends, and not a few have openly expressed their readiness to take back some of the critical conclusions reached during the first few days of the visit. This new spirit is very largely due to the greater willingness shown by citizens in offering personal hospitality in place of leaving everything to the official committee.

The flagship California received a great many visitors. Chief among Them were Major-General C. W. Melville (general officer commanding the New Zealand military forces) and Colonel H. R. Potter (officer commanding the district). They were officially received by Admiral Robison and on leaving MajorGeneral Melville was accorded a salute of eleven guns. The Auckland Club's “at home” to the admirals and officers was most successful. The function was thoroughly enjoyed by the naval visitors and the 700 guests who were present. In the evening a boxing tournament at the Town Hall attracted a number of men and a large section of the sporting public. A feature of to-morrow’s programme will be a ceremonial route march through Queen Street. DINNERS AND DANCES. FESTIVITIES AT CHRISTCHURCH. Christchurch, Last Night. Beautiful weather was experienced today, and the officers and men of the American fleet had their time fully taken up with luncheons, dinners and dances. A big contingent went by special train to Timaru. All restrictions on leave have been lifted and the men are being overwhelmed with offers of hospitality. To-night Mr. W. H. Nicholson, Mayor of Sumner, and a party of residents of the borough visited the U.S.S. Sumner and made a presentation of a piece of plate for use in the wardroom as a token of appreciation of the manner in which the officers and men have treated the people of Sumner. After the presentation the officers and crew of the destroyer accompanied the party back to Sumner, where they were guests at a special dance arranged for the occasion. PARTY VISITS WANGANUI. Wanganui, Last Night. Twenty-five officers of. the American fleet arrived at Wanganui this afternoon on a three days’ visit. They were given a civic welcome and later were entertained at afternoon tea by a large official party. A full programme has been mapped out, including trips to interesting places in the district. HOSPITALITY OF THE MAORIS. Rotorua, Last Night. Admiral Coontz and his officers received a great reception wherever they went. The Maoris vied in giving a good time to all the visitors, who are delighted with the visit to Rotorua and cordially invited the Arawas to Auckland. SOUTH CANTERBURY VISIT. Timaru, Last Night. About four hundred members of the fleet arrived at Timaru by special train this morning, one hundred having previously detrained at Temuka. At both centres civic receptions were accorded the visitors in the presence of large gatherings, much enthusiasm being shown. Various entertainments were provided, and all appeared to enjoy the visit thoroughly.