A NATIVE FUNERAL.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXXIII, Issue 15921, 6 May 1912, Page 8

A NATIVE FUNERAL.

[Per Pkess Association.] WAKAPUAKA, May 5,

I The funeral of the Into Hemi MatCnga (Martin), husband of Julia Martin (tho New Zealand Grace Darling), took place this afternoon at the native burial ground. There was a large attendance of influential natives from all parte of the dominion- .Tho burial service was conducted by Archdeacon Grace and the Rev J. Bennett. An old identity informed a Press Association representative that lie was present at tho wreck of tho Delaware, and deceased, ns well as his wile, lent valuable assistance in life-saving. On one occasion Matenga crossed from Kapiti Island to AVakapunka. in an open canoe. He leaves a large and valuable estate, and suggestions are hero made that the Government should attempt to acquire it for closer settlement.