Comment On Maori Surprises Welfare Officer In Auckland

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23217, 31 March 1950, Page 6

Comment On Maori Surprises Welfare Officer In Auckland

AUCKLAND, March 30

“I am very surprised that a man in his position could be so ill-informed on matters affecting the Maori race, especially concerning what is being done for Maori youth,” said Mr. K. T. Harawira, Maori vocational guidance officer, Auckland, in commenting today on the remarks reported to have been made yesterday by Mr. O. A. Darby, of the Lands and Survey Department.

Dr. Danby was reported to have said that the Maori had been spoiled by too much indulgence and needed firm handling if he were to make the grade as a sound citizen. “The Maori is a race fast becoming a target for all and sundry to shoot at,” said Mr. Harawira. “Mr. Darby’s review would give the impression that nothing whatever was being done for the Maori people.” Mr. Harawira said that Mr. Darby evidently did not know that there were Maori welfare officers throughout the Dominion, or that vocational guidance work had been going on for seven years. Hundreds of Maori boys and girls had been placed in good permanent jobs. The Maoris were well aware of their deficiencies as well as their responsibilities. “After all, we have had only a little over 100 years to adjust ourselves to the European way of life,” said Mr. Harawira.