MEETING AT PAEROA.

Auckland Star, Volume XXV, Issue 102, 30 April 1894, Page 4

MEETING AT PAEROA.

BELLIGEREN TNATIVES DISARMED.

ATTITUDE OF THE RIVAL FORCES.

AN IMPORTANT KORERO.

(by. telegraph.—own correspondent.)

Pahroa, this day» -

The permanent force party, under Inspector Hickson, together with Mr Kenny, S.M., and Sergeant Gillies, arrived at Paeroa ab 8.30 o'clock, and the natives shortly afterwards. The latter were disgusted at having had their ammunition, amounting to nearly one thousand rounds of ball cartridges, taken from them ab Hiknbaia by Inspector Hickson and party, bub openly boasted thab their friends here have twice as much.

Neither party left Paeroa for the quarry until shortly after eleven o'clock, Inspector Hickson insisting upon Mr Kenny, Sergeant Gillies and the permanent force going first, and the natives had to be content to follow.

Afterwards they were received by their friends at Mahomaho with a haka, danced with great zest, which was responded to with equal enthusiasm, and a big torero is now taking place. General opinion favours the exaction of an apology from the Ngatikoi, which will probably be forthcoming, as the latter only number a few, and seem awed by the immense number of Te Moananni's friends. It is more than likely that the Ngatikoi will also have to relinquish some of their land to pay for the cost of the affair and an inevitable feast. Although some people poop-pooh the matter there is no question that the natives meant business, and nothing but the prompt action of the authorities has prevented very serious trouble. Even now, however, it is not over. All depends upon the decision of the Icorero and how the Ngatikoi receive the ultimatum; Great interest is now being taken in the dispute here, and crowds are driving from all parts. An intensely bitter feeling exists between Te Moaanni's people and the Ngatikoe.