Cook Islands Notes

From Our Own Correspondent RAROTONGA, January 4.

THE Government schools closed up for the holidays just prior to the sail ing of last mail steamer, and the major ity of the European teachers sailed by that vessel on their yearly vacation in New Zealand. They will return by the Monowai on January 27.

The Resident Commissioner, accom panied by the Medical Officer and the Director of Agriculture, recently made an inspection of all villages in connec tion with the work being done by the “Au Vaine” (Women’s Committees). As a result of this inspection, the Silver Cup presented for the cleanest and best kept village was this year awarded to Arorangi.

A concert in aid of funds for the Rarotonga Sports Association was held recently and was most successful—the general opinion was expressed that the entertainment was one of the best of its kind seen here.

The horse races, which were to be held on New Year’s Day on the beach, were postponed until January 10, this being in order to allow the natives sufficient time to cut bananas for ex port by the steamer on January 5.

Administration Staff

Changes

Two changes in the Administration staff are taking place this boat. The Postmaster, Mr. E. C. Hardie, who has been 9 years in Rarotonga and is re turning to the N.Z. P. & T. Dept., is being replaced by Mr. W. H. Davis, of that Department The Matron, Miss G.

F. Sisley, who has had twelve years in Rarotonga and is returning to New Zealand, is being replaced by Miss T.

Butler, from the Niue staff.

A farewell party in the form of a Fancy Dress dance, was given to Mr and Mrs. Hardie at the “Bachelors Quarters” on the night of December 27 by the two inhabitants thereof and two young ladies —the whole signing them selves DEKGBMDWRHJBW. Over 50 Europeans were present and a most enjoyable evening was had by all.