A Native Regatta
p. 30 · Read in the full issue
From Our Own Correspondent
Rarotonga, Jan. 25.
The harbour of Ngantangiia was the scene of a native regatta on January 27, held by the people of Muri.
The stores and Government offices closed for the afternoon, permitting the attendance of many Europeans at the event.
At Ngantangiia there is a deep water opening through the reef into the lagoon.
Three small islands lie strung out along the reef with a body of water (shallow for the most part) washing up on to a saucer-shaped beach of white sand.
The small village of Muri is situated on the main road within a hundred yards of the beach, and is a favourite spot for picnic par ties. The small islands are not inhabited, and may be reached by wading or swimming across the lagoon. Exploring the islands is most interesting for newcomers and tourists.
The native women’s catamaran race (one woman to each canoe) provided the most interesting event of the afternoon. One woman fouled another competitor on one or two occasions. A canoe capsized and the occupant disappeared for a moment. One or two competitors zig-zagged badly. The win ner deserved the garland of flowers placed on her head by some of the onlookers.