Criticism By Maoris Of Meter Maids

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30911, 18 November 1965, Page 24

Criticism By Maoris Of Meter Maids

"The Press" Special Service ROTORUA, Nov. 17. In the face of renewed criticism from Maoris, the Rotorua Retailers’ Association is standing firm in its intention to employ Maori girls in traditional costume as parking meter maids during Christmas week. The president of the association, Mr T. R. Cato, said that the original idea would not be modified. “We are standing firm,” he said. The director of the Rotorua Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Mr P. H. Leonard, said that the piu piu was not intended to be worn for a walk down the street.

He said the piu piu, the bodice and the headband formed a type of national uniform to be worn on special occasions. All three had patterns full of deep significance known only to experts.

Mr Leonard said that as chairman of the Arawa Trust Board and director of the institute, he was one of the custodians of Maori arts and crafts.

“I will do anything to preserve the arts and crafts in the right perspective,” he said. The vicar of St. Faith’s

Anglican Church, Ohinemutu, the Rev. N. Te Hau, said recently that the idea would exploit Maori girls. He forbade any members of his church youth club to take part.