The Launching of the “Maori Davis.”

The schooner “Maori Davis” was launched from Meech's shipbuilding yard,

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Thorndon Quay, on the 5th August, 1842. It was the first vessel built for a bona fide native owner. Mr. Davis entertained a large number of European and Native friends, among whom were Dr. Featherston, Messrs. R. R. Strang, E. Halswell, Chiefs Wi Tako, Moturoa and others. The table was laid out in first-rate European order, the dinner was sumptuous, and the wines excellent.