H.M.S. DUNEDIN LEAVES AKAROA, AFTER VISIT THAT PROVED PLEASANT

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18889, 12 October 1929, Page 7

H.M.S. DUNEDIN LEAVES AKAROA, AFTER VISIT THAT PROVED PLEASANT

After a stay of four days, H.M.S. Dunedin left Akaroa at 6.30 p.m. on Wednesday 'for Dunedin. Excellent weather conditions prevailed during the ship’s visit. On Monday. Tuesda}’ and Wednesday Commodore Blake and officers played tennis on the Akaroa courts. The services of the band at all the entertainments were much appreciated, and the Mayor, Mr G. Armstrong, on behalf of Akaroa Boating Club and Football Club, made a small presentation to the band on behalf of their music fund. There was much pleasant intercourse between the ship's company and the townspeople, which it is hoped to renew next March. On Wednesday the Mayor received the following letter from Commodore Blake: —“ It is with the greatest regret that H.M.S. Dunedin leaves Akaroa. I only wish that we had the opportunity of remaining here longer. The kindness and hospitality extended to the officers and men have been much appreciated I can assure you, and I hope you will be kind enough to convey to all concerned our grateful thanks. We hope to return in March, if you will allow us, and although at that time we may be landing an army on your shores, you may be confident that our aims are purely pacific and we utilise it only as an excuse to renew our pleasant associations with your beautiful harbour, your progressive borough and our hospitable friends.'* When the letter was read at Wednesday’s meeting of the Akaroa Borough Council, it was decided to write and thank the commodore on behalf of the Akaroa residents for the music and entertainment provided during the ship’s stay. The Mayor remarked that he was sorry that more councillors had not turned up to extend a welcome to the commodore and officers, and it was decided that the councillors be notified in future of the time of the commodore’s official call. On Wednesday morning Commodore Blake and the ship’s surgeon were shown the Akaroa Hospital, and they expressed great satisfaction and pleasure at the hospital appointments and beautifully kept gardens and surroundings. On Monday, ' omraodore Blake was driven round the Summit Road, down into Okains Bay, and through Chorlton and round to the Hill Top by Mr Shuttlewcrtli. He was charmed with the beautiful scenery among the hills and in the bays. The concert party from H.M.S. Dunedin gave a very enjoyable entertainment in the Oddfellows’ Hall on Tuesday evening, in aid of the Akaroa branch of the Plunket Society. Not for very many years has the hall been so crowded; it was packed to the doors, and the substantial sum of £4B was raised. The entertainment was bright and amusing from start to finish. There were no long waits, and the programme was much appreciated. the only trouble being that the concert was too short. The main part of the programme fell upon the shoulders o.' Mr Branson, who acted as accompanist throughout, and with Mr Burden carried on a number of amusing dialogues. Mr Watson, as the comedian, was much enjoyed.