The Maungatapu Experience

Mana (Auckland), Volume 2, Issue 4, 18 May 1978, Page 4

The Maungatapu Experience

(Complied and edited by

Haare

Williams)

This is a book covering the feelings, facts and enlightenment of the visit by a group from the Auckland City Council to the Maungatapu Marae in Tauranga last year. It begins with the preparation and planning necessary, for such a trip. Included in this is an explanation of many Maori customs and terms which no doubt would make such, a visit a • much less daunting experience for this or any other inexperienced group or individual. For indeed, on a Marae, the pakeha must be ready to accept both new formalities and values. The pride and dignity of the Tangatawhenua (People of the land-hosts) demand it. The book carries on with descriptions of events, and speeches made by both visitors and hosts, which look into a wide range of problems, differences and local issues facing the people

of New Zealand today. A detailed historical summary of the growth of Tauranga follows which would be of great value to any history student or person interested in the development of New Zealand as a whole.’ “Maoritanga” is something which must be lived not read about. As one of the visitors says he feels as if he has been “Reborn” so perhaps from this book one can only gain the desire to be reborn, but it certainly is a good start. , One gets the impression the Maungatapu Experience would be a good experience for everyone, including those who pay only lip service to the idea of a multiracial society in New Zealand. Although only skimming the surface, the lyrical writing of Haare Williams makes, this a very readable and informative book for everyone, of all ages, races and ideologies, Janice Karaka