Cascade upon cascade of sea-green and golden streamers quivering in rippling lines across the big Labour Hall at Petone last night made a picturesque and appropriate maritime motif for the golden jubilee ball of this sea-girt borough. Long swaying fronds of crinkled streamers in similar shades veiled the hanging lamps and green and gold hangings were blended with tawny covert hues around the walls. Misty blue skies merging into the soft green of a willow-fringed riverbank provided a subtle colour contrast in the broad drop scene behind the orchestra and the whole effect of the hall was that of harmony, the colour motif of the well-conceived scheme being intimately bound up with the coming of both Maori and pakeha adventurers of the sea to the great harbour-haven and the bush-clad shores of Pito-one.

The large attendance at the ball was a happy blend of both early and later generations of the citizens of Petone, many of those present remembering the declaration of Petone's new status as a borough fifty years ago, while other young people were heard to remark that they were looking forward to the day "some time within the next fifty years" when the borough would become a city. Reference to the past progress and to the future hopes of Petone was made by the Mayor, Mr. G. London, in a short speech, and all good wishes were extended to the borough by the member for the district, the Hon. Walter Nash. The Mayoress, Mrs. C. London, accompanied her son, and Mrs. Nash was also present. Others in the official party were Mr. H. E. Combs, M.P., Mr. and Mrs. Horace Firth, and Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Jackson. A number of old inhabitants, some still residents and others visitors to Petone for jubilee week, attended the ball, and councillors from both Petone and Lower Hutt were present with many prominent citizens.

An excellent orchestra kept the floor well filled, some of the most popular numbers being the dances and melodies of the nineties and early years of the century. These were capably directed by the master of ceremonies, Mr. J. C. Martin. A delicious sit-down supper was served in the supper-rooms, where graceful silver epergnes filled with gold and sunset poppies formed the table decorations.

The capable committee of organisers comprised Mr. J. H. Robertson (chairman), and Messrs. D. S. Peterson, T. Watson, R. M. White, W. Lark, and J. C. Martin.

During the week's celebrations the borough was specially illuminated, several buildings including the Post Office, Railway Station and St. Augustine's church were floodlit. Special displays were made by various business houses, and competitions among retailers were held.

The weather which had held splendidly during the early part of the week failed on Friday, with the result that a fire brigade demonstration, and a procession, which were to have been held on Friday night, were abandoned.

Saturday's events were also marred by rain. It had been arranged that a procession of yachts, motor boats, rowing skiffs, etc., should make a colourful display off shore, but this and other events had to be abandoned.

The Norton Cup regatta was held, and was won by Petone, the previous holders.

A pageant depicting the landing of "Captain Cook" was spoiled by the weather.

Displays were given by the Sea Scouts, and Boys' Brigade, and music was provided by the Petone Citizens Band.