With the Royal Navy in Gisborne

From the time of her arrival in heavy rain to her departure.

In brilliant morning sunshine, Gisborne was invaded and occupied by submariners of Her Majesty's Royal Navy. Certainly the most friendly invasion in history, members of the crew of H. M. S. Telemachus, were received into the homes of Gisborne people and, in return, received the Gisborne public in their weird nautical home.

Harbourmaster Capt. Mackenzie Smart and Naval Relations Officer Owen Poole were first on board sub.

"Players Please"

Mail was delivered within minutes of sub's berthing

On the Sunday afternoon following her arrival, "Telemachus" was opened for public inspection. Never has the Gisborne harbour sported such a crowd, all anxious to "get a peep" inside this "metal monster".

Crowds lined the whole perimeter of wharf.

Visitors efficiently fed through aft hatch

Obliging seaman's assistance was needed to descend that tricky hatch.

A long, precarious climb for the unexperienced

"Visitors or no, I'll settle for the daily rum ration"

A Maori reception for officers and men of "Telemachus" at Poho-o-Rawiri hall was more than well received by large crowd.

"Telemachus" commanding officer, Lieutenant-Commander P. R. Hay R.N., decided to try it himself; donned appropriate apparel, put on his own performance for camera.

After witnessing the antics of Waihirere Concert Party members.

Maori maidens poi dance was an undoubted hit.

Submariners were at first bewildered, then fully appreciative of concert party.

After the Maori entertainers had "done their stuff", compere Bill Kerekere invited the crew of Telemachus to return the compliment by providing some entertainment of their own. This, after some procrastination they did, as pictured below.