WAITANGI GATHERING

Evening Star, Issue 21636, 3 February 1934, Page 19

WAITANGI GATHERING

ANOTHER WET DAY HEAVY COMMISSARIAT PREPARATIONS [Peb United Press Association.] WAITANGJ, February 2. Although it marked the arrival of the largest contingent of Natives, today was quiet at VVaitaugi. The driving rain which fell early had no sooner cleared than the Ngapuhis commenced to make arrangements for welcoming the visitors in i.vtmg style, but they were again frustrated by the rain. The Maoris abandoned all thought of outdoor ceremonial and spent a restful day, which was greatly appreciated by the travellers, by whom, ever since they set out for their Mecca, sleep has been taken in snatches. Their inherent love of debate, however, kept a number from their beds, and groups assembled in sheltered corners to listen to words of wisdom from ancient rangatiras. One large marquee was devoted entirely to drying operations, long lines of wet garments and blankets being strung from corner to corner. Plenty of hot water was available.

indicating the magnitude of the provision made by the commissariat department, half a ton of Hour was used in baking cakes. Although the main bread supply is drawn from Whangaroi special kinds are baked for those with distinctive tastes. To-day 200 41b loaves and nine bullocks were consumed in the Native camp. To the inland Natives pipis, of which ample supplies may be obtained nearby, and fish are a rare treat. On the marae ground where the vice-regal party will be welcomed next Monday are grasscovered mounds of old pipi shells, some of which perhaps are relics of the camp ninety-four years ago when the Maoris assembled to meet the Queen’s emissary. Owing to the high wind fish is in short supply, and the boatmen who have, been fortunate enough to make any sort of catch find a ready market for it. In the ceremonial with which the sub-tribal visitors were welcomed yesterday Mr Jack Henare, a brother of Mr Tan Henare, M.P., and at one time a successful track athlete, outstripped the others so much that he was able to turn round every now and then and grimace tantalisingly at his pursuers. An interesting relic on the beach at Waitangi is a half-section of the Omapere canoc. This boat was launched on tho adjoining river over 100 years ago, and was manned by the Ngapuhi in a race with the’ Waikatos at tho Auckland Exhibition. Uu that occasion the Waikato boat, which was manned by 100 rowers, had a distinct advantage over its northern competitor, which had forty aboard. That kauri challenges totara as a timber for withstanding time and tide is shown by the excellent condition of what remains of the Omapere canoe. Sir John Sandeman Allen, M.P., will be in attendance at the celebrations. Captain Priestley, who is in command of the marines on H.M.S. Dunedin, accompanied by Sir Cecil Day, secretary to the Governor-General, will arrive by air to-morrow to complete arrangements for the official ceremonies.

This evening there are indications of improving weather. All energies are being bent upon making the'Native part of Monday’s observance one which will live long in the memories of pakeha and Maori alike.