H.M.S. NEW ZEALAND.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 10685, 4 February 1913, Page 3

H.M.S. NEW ZEALAND.

INSPECTION BY LONDON PAKEHAS. TABLET UNVEILED BY MISS MACKENZIE. United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. (Received February 4. 10 a.m.) LONDON, February 3. About 300 New Zeahinders inspected the battleship New Zealand. Sir G. H. Roid was absent through influenza, but Mr ,T. Cnthcaj't We.son, M. P., and Admiral Fawkes wore present. Miss Mackenzie unveiled thp coat-of-arms which supported the tablet inscribed, "Tasmau 1642, Coo]; 1769."

The Hon Thomas Mackenzie said ho was proud that New Zealand had Jed the way. Ho referred to the Australian aud Canadian assistance to the Empire and hoped that South Africa would soon follow. New Zealand was anxious that the Empire's Navy should he equal to nnv challenge and wanted Britain to fee] that she was with her to the extent of her ability. Commander Arthur Halsev, in accepting tho sift, congratulated New Zealand on being the first, to give the Empire a ship. He trusted that if ever they were called on to perform the duty- for which the vessel was built the crew would maintain the honour placed in, their hands. The Hon .James Allen said No>v Zealand would cheerfully give further l elp. and meant to see the Pacific safe. He hoped that the other countries there would combine to make it so. New Zealand would not be satisfied until slio was able to provide men r,s well as money and ships. Sir 1?. Solomon, High Commissioner for South Africa, congratualied New Zealand on its practical loyalty. The visit of the vessel to Table Iky would help the South Africans' growing feeling towards co-operation A silver cup for boat-crew competitions and a portrait of Mr R ; .chard were presented on fcelmlf of -Mrs Seddon.