MAORI MEMORIAL HOUSE AT MUHAKA: MR. FRASER’S VISIT

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23035, 27 August 1949, Page 4

MAORI MEMORIAL HOUSE AT MUHAKA: MR. FRASER’S VISIT

(S.R.) WAIROA, Aug. 27. The Kahungunu War Memorial building at Nuhaka is being opened today in the presence of an exceptionally large number of Maoris, estimated at between 3000 and 4000, and keen interest is being displayed in the. event. The official opening ceremony is being performed by Mr. P. Fraser. Prime Minister, and also present being Messrs. C. G. E. Harker and T. Omana, M.P.’s. and a number of Government officials. Owing to the late arrival of the Prime Minister, the official function was to be delayed somewhat and a Rugby match for the Tainui Cup between Hawke's Bay and Tairawhiti teams was also to be‘late in starting.

£20,000 Outlay on New Hall

The memorial hall, which has been erected at a cost of £20,000 was built under the direction of members of the Latter Day Saints’ organisation, guided by Sir Apirana Ngata. ft is one of the largest and most up to date Maori buildings in the Dominion Carvings have been carried out by experts from different centres in the North Island and are equal in appearance to anything in New Zealand. The over-all dimensions of the structure are 110 ft. by 65ft., and the house will be recognised as one of the most beautiful yet erected.