The Springboks in Gisborne

It was a day the public of Gisborne — and the Springboks –– would never forget. "Indelibly imprinted on our minds" is the way Dr Danie Craven, coach and manager of the touring South African Rugby team, has described Gisborne's rousing welcome last Monday.

Thousands thronged the streets to take part in the happy, informal reception to the 'Boks on their arrival by air from Wellington. Some indication of the public's enthusiasm is given below in this picture of the surging crowd at the Gladstone Road - Peel Street intersection.

For "Dr Danie", it was a re-union. He first visited this district as a member of the 1937 Springbok team. After Monday's welcome, and the memorable dinner which followed, he said simply, "This has been wonderful".

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Basie Viviers, captain of the tourists, smiled his way into Gisborne hearts within minutes after his arrival. Picture is typical of his mood as he chatted to the crowd.

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Reception pictures continued on Pages 4, 5 and 8