TEMPERANCE WORK AMONGST THE MAORIS.

Hot Lakes Chronicle, Volume 5, Issue 220, 20 February 1897, Page 2

TEMPERANCE WORK AMONGST THE MAORIS.

In out issue of January .30 n-n mentioned tho social given by Mrs Hewetf. to her Maori converts to temperance.On that occasion over 200 men were present nil devoted to tlie cause. It is interesting' to know that the work has spread to Mokoia, Rotoiti, To Ng\ie, Mourea and elsewhere. Many of the members have been most indefatigable in their effort-t and tho names which may be singled out include Mesdamos Mitchell, Taupopoki,Pouramuti, Foley, Miriam, Sophia, Clayton, Ratema and Temuera, who have exerted their influence to carry on tho good work. These native wo- - men have also been exercising their influence to establish Sunday Schools for the Maori children. At Whakarewarewa the othor night at a social Mrs Howett spoke at considerable length to both Europeans and natives incu eating tho principles of Christianity and reminding them of what she had said to them when she first addressed them six months ago. She had come to Rotorua because sho had heard that the Moaris there Wero the worst in New Zealand for taking too mush waipero. She was proud to say that now they might be considered to be the most, temperate. Tho Kev. Donald Ross who had taken much trouble in temperance work amongst the natives was then introduced and delivered a speech full of interest. He was followed hy the Rev. Ratema, native clergyman of Ohinemutu. who spoke in the highest praise of Mrs Hewett's work amongst the Maoris in this district. He also thanked Mr Ross for tho interest he had taken in amelioration of the Maori race. Following these addresses singing was indulged in, the songs given by the Misses Maxwell, of Auckland, being'especially admired. The' singing of the young Maori women from the college at Napier was also received with much acceptance. Other songs and speeches followed and the meeting closed' with votes of thanks to' those who 1 had'taken part.