MAORI MEMORIAL

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 June 1927, Page 3

MAORI MEMORIAL

ORNATE MEETING HOUSE (Per Press Association.) NEW PLYMOUTH, June 19. Scenes were witnessed at Parihaka to-day strangely reminiscent of the days of the village’s former glory, when it was the largest Maori town in New Zealand, with a population of 2001) natives. Then Parihaka was the headquarters of the great prophets, Te Whiti and Tabu, who held a widespread influence over a large section of the natives. It was to celebrate the opening of an ornate meeting house, 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 once the historic stronghold lapsed into its former customs, visitors being welcomed 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 a. strong ’contrast, in hundreds of modern motor cars, such as Parihaka had never seen. The. meeting 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 waf £2500 but wonderful value is represented for the money.