AIR SERVICE STARTS.

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20230, 26 June 1937, Page 8

AIR SERVICE STARTS.

DEPARTURE IN HEAVY RAIN. OFFICIAL CEREMONY HELD. (By Telegraph.—rress Association.) AUCKLAND, Saturday. In steady rain the commercial air ransport service between Auckland and Wellington was inaugurated this morning at Manegere Aerodrome when, prior to its departure for the -south, one of Union Airway's Lockheed Eleetra monoplanes was named by the Mayor of Auckland, Sir Ernest Davis, md the service was officially in augu•ated bv the Minister of Defence, the ton. F. Jones, in the presence of 50 ir 60 enthusiasts. The Mayor undraped flags from the lose of the machine to reveal the aame “ Kuaka ” In scarlet letters. i nusually heavy rain from early morning had prevented the large attendance which was anticipated. With a full complement of passengers including the Minister, ttie Hon. F. Jones, the Kuaka took off at 10.24 and speedily disappeared in a southerly direction. PLANE CHRISTENED. WE L LIX GT O N F UNCTION. (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) WELLINGTON. Saturday. The ceremony of christening ‘the otare took place at Rongotai AeroJrome this morning and the machine .eft at 11.30 for Palmerston North with guests for the ceremony at Mi Ison. The guests and visitors were welcomed at Mnngol.it by Sir Alexander Roberts. The Hon. P. Fraser, acting Prime Minister, in a short speech, congratulated Union Mrways upon their mterprise and efficiency and ex■en.jed best wishes for the success ttid prosperity of the service. The rhrisfrnfnc ceremony was performed r, Mr r. iA. Hlp'oq.