MEETING OF NEW ZEALAND BORN

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 290, 7 September 1928, Page 11

MEETING OF NEW ZEALAND BORN

ASSOCIATION FORMED. There was a large attendance of na-tive-born New Zealanders at a meeting held in the Town Hall Concert Chamber last night for the purpose of forming an association. Mr. W. J. Ford, as chairman of the provisional committee (elected at the inaugural meeting on August 6), welcomed those present, saying that in his opinion the time had arrived for the New Zealand born to get- together for the purpose of forming their own society. As descendants of adventurous pioneers, it was their business to keep the old traditions alive. It was stated that owing to similarity to the appellation of the Natives’ Association it had been found necessary to alter the name of the organisation from the “New Zealand Association” to the “Maorilanders’ Association.” This change was approved of by those present. “Advance, New Zealanders,” was decided on as a suitable motto. BrieHv, the objects of the association as stated in the constitution drawn up are to honour and perpetuate the memory of the pioneers, to recognise and encourage high idqals of national life and character, to promote interests of members and to establish and support important principles on all matters affecting New Zealand. Although some demur arose at the election of officers at such a meeting, where members were unknown to one another and where there was also the possibility of non-members having a hand in the selection, the ballot was nevertheless proceeded with, the following being duly chosen: President. Mr. M. J. Ford; secretary, Mr. W. H. Stevens: treasurer, Mr. F. Smith; management committee. Messrs. J. D. Hislop, J. O'Brien, K. W .Costello, J. J. Murray, M. Hyland, G. Nicholls, J. Brad. A. Cassie, J. Ryan, T. W. Drake. Questioned, Mr. Ford was emphatic on the point that the association had no leanings toward party politics, although things political wpuld form an important item in its future. It was decided that the appointment of an organiser should be left in the hands of the general committee, with power to act.