THE ISLAND TRIP.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7720, 1 June 1903, Page 3

THE ISLAND TRIP.

VOYAGE OP THE MAPOURIKA.

[Pun Prkss Association.] AUCKLAND, June 1

There is no sign, of the Mapourika yet.

The Hauroto brought the following news: r-The Mapounka left Aitutaki for Tahiti on May 1, reaching Tahiti on May 4. The party visited the British Consul next morning, and afterwards waited: upon the Governor, 'M. Petit, who pave a very cordial welcome to tha visitors. He said he had long taken an interest in New Zealand and its legislation, especially its land' laws, and was exceedingly pleased to meet so- many members of Parliament from a country of such Advanced ideas. Mr Mills replied, and thanked his Excellency for the cordial reception. The Mapourika arrived; at Penrhyn on May 9. Mr Mills had Departmental business to transact in connection with the pearl fisheries, and later the party went on the lagoon in boats to Avitnesu pearl fishing. Mannkiki was reached on May 9. The natives evinced great joy at the- arrival of the £arty, and extended to the members of it a very kindly welcome. The presentation of a New Zealand flag by Mv Mills created great interest. Specially prepared songs were sung in honour of the event. At this island, as atj all the others, Mr Mills was the recipient of many presents of fans, mats, sticks, paddles, etc. Tutuila was reached on Ma-y 13, where Mr Mills was very cordially received by Captain Underwood, the American Commandant, and tha party spent a very pleasant day ashore. Sir Mills had an interview with the principal ohief of the island. Apia was reached on May 14 and Niue on May 16. Nearly two days wer^ spent at the latter place, there beingi a lot of Departmental business for Mr Mills to look into. The knotty 'question hero is the duty upon tobacco, which hitherto haid been admitted duty free, but since the annexation to New Zealand the duty had been levied. Mr Mills received a deputation of traders of the island and attended »a meeting of natives, at which the King of the island was pre-? sent. After the meeting war dances were held. Mr Mills made the usual presentations. Avau was reached on May 18, and next day a departure was made for Nikualofa. Mr Mills had an interview with King George, the whole of the Parliamentary "party being introduced to his Majesty. The visitors were entertained with some special singing by the King's choir. Early nexj) morning the Mapourika sailed for Suva,