THE MERCER REGATTA.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume IX, Issue 13, 26 March 1892, Page 299

THE MERCER REGATTA.

ONE of the most popular outings of the summer season in Auckland is the Mercer regatta. This year a large crowd gathered at the little township to witness the regatta and sports, which passed off most successfully. Our artist has obtained a very fair illustration of a part of the * scene ’ on

the Mercer wharf during the progress of the racing, and opposite is depicted the foliage of Turo Island, where a great number of visitors to the regatta found their way. Here is found shelter from the heat of the sun’s rays, while the many events set down on the sports’ programmecan be viewed under favourable and comfortable circumstances. While the regatta is proceeding the view on the river is a unique one, and to those who are curious to see a scene in old-time Maori life, the regatta is particularly interesting. The fine illustrations convey an idea of the sights on the river, and the types of Maoris who mingle with the crowd in the township. The activity of the dusky tribe in their canoes is astonishing, and how they manage to.get their frail craft over the hurdles in the obstacle race is a cause of wonder to the spectators.