MAORI PAGEANTRY

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 305, 24 November 1937, Page 2

MAORI PAGEANTRY

PARTY BEING ASSEMBLED. REHEARSALS AT MOTUITI. > With oveit ouq’’ hundred Maoris assembled, practices began in earnest at the Motuiti pa,' near Foxton, on Monday for the big Maori pageant to be staged at the Showgrounds on Thursday as an integral part of the City’s Jubilee celebrations. Rehearsals were made of the beaching of the canoe Tainni, and the landing of a migratory party, with the thanksgiving ritual. Apart from ceremonial functions, this will easily be the largest event, and the most ambitious programme, yet staged publicly by Maoris in the Manawatu district. Maoris have gathered from the area between Kakariki and Shannon under the supervision of Mr R. Carkeek, and to-day will have their final rehearsal, . when cinematograph shots will be taken, and no visitors admitted. More Maoris were arriving at Motuiti yesterday, when the women were preparing mats and accessories. There will be eight hakas, each with its own significance, and. six poi dances, with song accompaniments, in the display at the Showgrounds. lour Maori maids will be seen playing ' at stick games—Titi-Torea.. and there will be numerous other features, tableaux and a mock battle.