‘Over-emphasis’ On Maori Problems

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31121, 26 July 1966, Page 14

‘Over-emphasis’ On Maori Problems

CA’.Z. Press Association* i HAMILTON, July 25. i Maori problems were overemphasised. an Oxford graduate, Miss Ngapare Hopa, of Gordonton. said. She was attending a welcome in Hamilton arranged for her by the Ngati Hamutana group after her return from three years and a half in Britain. At Oxford Miss Hopa gained a diploma in anthropology and became the first Maori woman to complete the bachelor of letters degree. She has been appointed extension lecturer in Maori studies at Auckland University. “Sure, we've got our prob-

items, but they are overemphasised," Miss Hopa said. . “The picture is much more . encouraging than reports • would have us believe. "This emphasis is not helping the Maori people.’’ The Maori people are going through a transitional stage in whinh thav wore frvina tn'

in wiucb they were trying to' adapt their standards and attitudes to modem New Zealand society. “A criminal offence com--mitted by a Maori should not Ibe condoned in any way. If' he’s a thief he’s a thief—but why all this highlighting?" she said. Often Maori offenders "hit the press” in unfair proportion to pakehas. she said.