SOCIAL PROBLEM

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue 32, 8 February 1943, Page 4

SOCIAL PROBLEM

INFLUX OF MAORIS HOUSING SUGGESTIONS The unsatisfactory living conditions of the Maori people within the Metropolitan area were commented upon to-day by Mr. Geo. Graham, honorary secretary of the Te Akarana Maori Association. "The influx of Maoris into the city has created a major social problem which demands a speedy solution," he said. "It must be remembered that a different type of native men and women has to be dealt with to-day than during the Maori regime period," Mr. Graham continued. "They have more education and are looking the battle of life squarely in the face, and are making an effort to place their feet on the first rung of the ladder. They are having their difficulties, too. "There has been of late a marked change in the Maori outlook. Economic conditions have brought about a steady flow of Maoris into the city. Among the impelling causes are the lower cost of living in Auckland as compared with the country, and the varied and well-paid avenues of employment available. This influx has created a housing or accommodation problem. The Maoris'obtain the lowest grade of dwellings in what may be termed slum areas, and conditions arise which are a menace to the public health." Permanent Homes Needed Mr. Graham said it was recognised by all those who had studied the question that permanent homes were necessary for the Maori population. During the present emergency, however, something temporary should be attempted to accommodate Maori workers close to their places of employment. There were large numbers of Maoris, for instance, engaged ar. Westfield and in the market gardens surrounding Auckland. Hutments similar to those provided for employees of the Public Works Department might be a temporary'solution. If electric light and cooking conveniences were provided the Maoris would certainly be better off than in rooms in the back streets of the city. The Orakei block was mentioned by Mr. Graham as a suitable area to solve the housing problem. It was large enough to provide all the accommodation necessary to house the whole of the Maori population of Auckland and keep the Maoris, especially the women, away from the temptations of the city. Government and Local Bodies "The Government and the local bodies have a responsibility here," he said. "They should work together on this important problem and at least provide temporary accommodation in the meantime. Permanent homes should be the aim of the future. The Native Department has been interesting itself in the housing question for some years and has done much for the Maoris in the country districts, but as there are so many of the Maoris drifting citywards the accommodation question has -become increasingly urgent, and prompt action is necessary." At present a hostel for Maori girls was being built under the auspices of the Methodist City Mission, but that would not solve all the difficulties. It would, however,- be greatly appreciated by the Maori women. The war was not responsible altogether for the influx of Maoris to the city. The movement had been going on for some years on account of the big demand for Maori labour in industry. In boot and shirt-making factories Maori girls did excellent work. Mr. Graham ended by saying he did not think that anybody would favour a Maori quarter in the city, but a Maori residential area at Orakei or elsewhere was urgently needed.