MAORI FAREWELL

Hokitika Guardian, 12 January 1935, Page 1

MAORI FAREWELL

AS ENJOYABLE (LATHERING There was a great gathering at Arahui’a Pa last night to bid farewell to Adjutant and Mrs Prowse and Miss Ella Prowse. Several speeches were made both by the men and the women, expressing regret at the departure' of the officers. Each speaker made reference to the interest that the Adjutant and his wife had t ken in the spiritual and social life of the Pa and they gave the assurance that they would remember the kind words and deeds of the departing officers. Mr and Mrs ‘‘Tinß’ Taiimi, who have been visiing the l’a, each expressed their pleasure at being present, and assured Une officers that the Kiapoi Maoris would give them a real hearty welcome when they arrived.

•Presentations were -made on behalf of Mrs Tainui seiir., the Maori children and the Pa as'a whole; accompanied by words of sorrow at the departme, hope for success in the new appointment and a wish lor a continuation ol friendship. IL-tli tile officers made a suitable reply thanking the Maoris for their kindness, and expressed a hope that they would let God control their .thoughts and actions. tfevoraA songs were .sung during the evening, both in ’English and Mauri. It was a real Maori farewell and one speaker said: “The best gathering in the Pa that h e can remember.” This interesting gathering was brought to a close by the singing of a hymn and pravcL