DEPARTURE OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR.

Wellington Independent, Volume XXVII, Issue 3116, 6 February 1871, Page 2

DEPARTURE OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR.

* We understand that H.M. b.b. Clioj Commodore Stirling, which left Wellington on the 4th inst, conveying his Excellenov the Governor, Capt. Pitt, R.A., A.D.0., and Dr Hector, will call, in the first instance, at Hokitika, if the weather ehould permit. Thence the Governor and the Commodore intend to visit Martin's Bay, Milford Sound, Dusky Bay, and the other beautiful and little known inlets of the West Coast of tho Middle Island. It ia believed that the surveying ship Acheron is the only ship of the royal navy which has ever visited these inlets Binee the daya of Captain Cook ; and that much requires to be done towards their thorough exploration. No doubt the results of the present expedition will be important, as much will be done in the way of marine surveying ; and _Dr Hector will fully examine the geological and other features of tho oountry, and observe the best points for future settlements. It ia expected, also, that fresh xknowledge will be gained of the fauna and Jlora of New Zealand, and that fresh contributions will be made to various branohes of science. We further understand that the Clio will visit Stewart's Island and the principal porta in Foveaux Straits, and is expected to reach the harbor of the Bluff on or about'the Ist of Maroh. Afterwards tbe Governor and Commodore will visit Dunedin and the interior of the province of Otago, and, at a later period, Canterbury and Westland. They will probably not be back at Wellington before the middle of April.