OUR ILLUSTRATIONS.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XIX, Issue XIX, 30 October 1897, Page 586

OUR ILLUSTRATIONS.

OPENING OF THE AUCKLAND BOATING SEASON. Next to the opening of the yachting season, the commencement of the boating season is a popular event among all lovers of aquatics in Auckland. Unfortunately, the state of the harbour somewhat marred the annual function this year on Saturday last, when the Northern Rowing Union had intended to hold the usual procession of boats. The programme could not be carried out in its entirety, but a very pleasant afternoon was spent by those in the boats and by the spectators on the steamers. The ‘Graphic’ photographer obtained some good pictures of the turnout. MORE PICTURES OF THE KLONDIKE. The additional pictures we publish of the road to the Klondike goldfields require no explanation beyond what their titles afford. They afford a vivid representation of the dangers of that dreary journey to the frozen North. The views are reproduced from an American contemporary. DEER STALKING IN NEW ZEALAND. The full-page picture of ‘Deer Stalking in New Zealand’ represents a scene that is getting more and more common in the colony. A few years ago a stag was a very rare animal in New Zealand, but now herds are to be seen in several districts, adding to the attractiveness of the bush and open country which they frequent. In some localities, indeed, they almost threaten to become a nuisance by their numbers. On the island of Motutapu, where our picture was taken, the gentle deer have multiplied so rapidly as to deprive the sheep of a good deal of grass, and, although in such a locality it would not be so difficult to deal with them as on the mainland, yet there exists a very natural reluctance to wantonly destroying the beautiful creatures. THE BOWLING SEASON. Special interest attaches to the opening of the Auckland Bowling Club on Saturday last as the club is the pioneer one in the North and has lately effected many improvements on its premises, the new pavilion, shown in our illustrations, being the most noticeable. There was quite a large attendance at the function in Grafton Road, the ladies being conspicuous by their presence. Hunter’s Band was in attendance, and afternoon tea was dispensed by Mesdames Thompson, Gorrie, and Kingswell, assisted by several young ladies. The President (Mr A. W. Thompson) delivered an excellent opening speech, congratulating the club on its present position. He read a telegram from Mr Holland, M.H.R. (a member of the club), who is now in Wellington on Parliamentary duty, wishing the club a successful opening. THE CLOSE OF THE HUNTING SEASON. The Auckland hunting season was brought to a close the other day by a point-to-point steeplechase, which was duly chronicled in our columns. This week we give some pictures of the meet on the occasion.