 Before leaving Auckland two crewmen had reported sick and were sent ashore, but by the time "Talune" reached Suva in Fiji on 4 November several more crewmen had influenza.As none of the local passengers was stricken, they were allowed ashore and the cargo unloaded while the ship remained in quarantine alongside the wharf, the Port Health officer having heard reports of the severe epidemic in New Zealand.As was the custom of the time, about 90 Fijian labourers were taken on board to work the cargo as the ship proceeded on its planned voyage.