Ngapo Wehi; challenging the advancing royal party. This scale model of Cook's ship ‘Endeavour’ was placed beside ‘Britannia’ while she was berthed at Gisborne National Publicity Studios “aroha” — which condenses the concepts of love, friendliness, kindness, sympathy and understanding. May aroha continue to be the basis of life and relationships in this country.’ Then came tributes from tribes all over Aotearoa, first Waiariki performing a war dance with spears, an action song and a posture dance. Waikato-Maniapoto followed, with chant, haka, action song and poi telling of the love and devotion of the people of their land and river, to the Queen of England, her husband and family. With two action songs, Te Waipounamu affirmed the loyalty of the people of the south, the ‘Land of Greenstone Waters’, climaxing their first song by forming the shape of their mountain Aorangi, Mr Cook. The women of Aotea, including some very small girls, then presented their sacred ‘Poi Aotea’, including the royal genealogy, the men climaxing the performance with two haka. Ikaroa added their welcome to the ‘Rare White Heron’ with patere, action song and a spectacular composite item featuring poi and haka. The two areas Taitokerau and Tamaki combined for an impressive composite item and the hymn ‘Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer’, with verses in English. Maori and Welsh, in honour of the Prince of Wales. The massed groups sang ‘E Pari Ra’ as the royal party walked slowly through the ranks, stopping to talk as they went. It was a splendid occasion, a great and warm welcome, and leaves pleasant memories with all who were there. Highlight of the day for many performers was a short conversation with one of the royal visitors National Publicity Studios