FIJI-NEW ZEALAND EXPEDITION 253 
During race week while I was at Christchurch there were several 
serious accidents, although I heard of no fatal results. 
Aquatie sports also attract much attention, especially in the 
summer time. Canoe races are said to be very gpirited events and 
the canoe hurdle races are particular exciting. This race involves 
the taking of the canoes over a hurdle in the shape of a log lying 
across the course and requires great skill and agility such as de- 
lights the active and athletic Maoris. The men run the prow of 
their canoe as far up on the smooth log or spar as possible, then 
leap out on the hurdle, drag the canoe over, jump in and paddle 
away. Of course there are a good many spills which only add to 
the fun. 
Occasionally the Maoris at Rotorua in the thermal region in- 
dulge in a ‘‘Haki’’ or old-time dance in native costume, which 
consists of a dancing skirt reaching from waist to knee. It seems 
originally to have been a war dance with much brandishing of 
spears and clubs and loud yelling. 
The Governor General, Lord Jellicoe, has greatly enhanced his 
popularity by his democratic interest in various forms of sport, 
and mixes freely with his people much to his enjoyment and their 
satisfaction. 
