A MAORI WAR VETERAN.

King Country Chronicle, Volume XVIII, Issue 1895, 1 December 1923, Page 4

A MAORI WAR VETERAN.

DIES AT TAURANGA. CAPTAIN GILBERT MAIR. The death is announced of Captain Gilbert Mair at Tauranga, on Thursday morning- at the age of 80 years. The deceased was one of the best known of the Maori war veterans, and notwithstanding the fact that he had fought against them, he was beloved by all the native race. Captain Mair was recognised as one of the best Maori linguists in New Zealand, and was for many years native interpreter to the New Zealand Parliament, besides holding many other offices in connection with native affairs. Captain Mair was one of the most romantic figures in New Zealand, and had spent a very adventurous life. During the Maori War he was several times mentioned in despatches, and earned among the Maoris the reputation of being a brave as well as a true and worthy foe—qualities which were so much appreciated during the wars in the Waikato and East Coast districts by the natives. When peace came there was no better, advocate for the rights of the Maoris than Captain Mair, and the passing of a brave and just man will be regretted by both pakelia and Maori. The interment of tire remains of Capt. Gilbert Mair will take place at Rotorua, where the Maoris propose holding a great tahgi. He was recognised as a. chief amongst the Maoris and will b« interred with all the honour due to that rank.