PARLIAMENTARY PICNIC.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 906, 2 June 1903, Page 3

PARLIAMENTARY PICNIC.

ARRIVAL OF THE PARTY,

Per Press A-ssociati id. Auckland, last night. The Hauroto, which has arrived from the Islands, brought the following news:--The Mapourika 'eft Aitutaki for Tahiti on May Ith, reaching Tahiti on May 4th. The party waited upon the British Consul. Next morning the party waited upon Governor Petit, who gave a very cordial welcome to the visitors, He said he had long taken an interest in New Zealand and its legislature, especially its land laws. He was exceedingly pleased to meet so many members of Parliament from a country with such advanced ideas. The Hon. Mr Mills, replying, said ho thanked His Excellency for the cordial reception lie had given them. The Mapourika arrived at Penrhyn on the Oth. Mr Mills had departmental business to transact in connection with the pear! fisheries. Later the party went on the lagoon in boats to witness the pear) fishing.

Manahiki was reached on May 10th. The natives evinced great joy at the arrival of tho party, and extended it a very kindly- welcome. Tiie presentation of the New Zealand flag by Mr Mills created great interest. Specially prepared songs wtre sung in honor of the event. At this Island, as at all others, Mr Mills was the recipient of many presents of faDS, mats, stacks, paddles, etc. Tutuila was reached on tho loth. Mr Mills was very cordially received by Capt. Underwood, American Commandant. The party spent a very pleasant day ashore. Mr Mills had an interview with tho principal chief of tho Island. Apia was reached on tho 14th, and Niue on the 16th. Nearly two days wero spent here, there being a lot of departmental business for Mr Mills to look into. A knotty question here is the duty upon tobacco, which has hitherto been admitted

duty free. .Since tho annexation Now Zealand duty has been lovied. Mr Mills received a deputation of traders of the Island, and attended a big meeting of natives, tho King of tho Island being present. After the meeting war dances were held, and Mr Mills made the usual presentations. Vavaii was reached on the 18th. Next day departure was inado for Nukualoia. Mr Mills had an interview with King George, tho whole of tho Parliamentary party being introduced to His Majesty. Tho visitors wero entertained with some special singing by tho King’s choir. Early next morning the Mapourika sailed for Suva.

Tho Parliamentary excursionists returned by tho Mapourika from the Islands to day. Taken altogether tho weather was phenomenally line, and tho trip thoroughly enjoyable.