MAORI CELEBRATION

Evening Post, Volume CXIII, Issue 143, 21 June 1927, Page 12

MAORI CELEBRATION

PICTURESQUE GATHERING

(J3y Telegraph.—press Association.)

NEW PLYMOUTH, 19th June. .Scenes were witnessed at Parihaka today strangely reminiscent of: the days of the village's former glory when it was the largest Maori town iv New Zealand, with a population of 2000 Natives. Then Parihaka was the headquarters of the great prophets Te Whiti and Tohu, who held a widespread influence over a large section of the Natives. It was to celebrate the opening of the ornate meetinghouse erected to the memory of Tohu by his followers that to-day's gathering was held. Thousands of Maoris from all over New Zealand and whites from all parts of the province were there, and for the nonce the historic stronghold lapsed into its former customs, visitors being allowed in true Maori fashion. For days preparations had been in train and huge stores of provender were laid in. They were all required, for the Maoris "right royally" entertained both white and brown visitors. Though the Maori atmosphere predominated, a large proportion of the Pakehas intermingled with the crowd, and without the gates of the secluded village was seen a strong contrast in the hundreds of modern motor-cars such as Pnrihaka had never before seen. The meet-ing-house was built by the Maoris themselves on modern lines from funds donated or earned by working parties extending over several years. The total cost was £250, but there was wonderful value represented for the money.