Installation of King Edward VII. As the Supreme Native Chief of Fiji.

Taranaki Herald, Volume L, Issue 11957, 3 May 1902, Page 2

Installation of King Edward VII. As the Supreme Native Chief of Fiji.

(From t)tago Daily Times).

Wo have been hearing a good deal about Fiji and it 3 people, and the expediency or otherwise of federation with New Zealand or the Commonwealth, but whatever the real desire of the Fijian3 may bo as to the form of their local Government, one thing is incontestable, and that is the genuine loyalty of the native race to the British Crown. For some ti ne past preparations have besn going on for the installation of his Majesty King Edward VII. as Supreme Native Chief of Fiji according to native ceremonial, but on a far larger and grander scile than any celebration hitherto attempted in the Pacific. The ceremonies will occupy a whold week, beginning on Monday, June 23, with "Burna," or the giving up of mourning for her late Majesty. This will be observed at Bau, King Cakobau's capital in the old cannibal days, near Suva, including large native war dances, fire walking by natives of Bega, etc. The installation of his Majesty King Edward will be held on Wednesday, 26 th June, and the ceremonies will close with a grand regatta, comprising native canoe races and other events, on Saturday, 28tb. Year by year as European influences extend, over the South Sea Islands the opportunities for witnessing old native customs and ceremonials become more rare, and probably anything like the projected festivities in June may not again be seen. .June is the very best time of the year in which to visit the South Sea Islands, and no doubt a large number of tourists will turn their faces towards Fiji now that there is this unique' a traction to look forward to. Indeed we hear that already so many inquiries are being made that the Union Jiteara Ship Company are arrauying <o run one of their fast passenger steamers from New Zealand for the occasion.