Memorials To Well-Loved Maori Women

Northern Advocate, 23 March 1939, Page 13

Memorials To WellLoved Maori Women

Representatives of all tribes in Northland to the number of 250 attended a function of great interest 1o Maori and Pakeha alike on Tuesday at Waiomio, once famous as Kawiti’s stronghold. The occasion was the unveiling of memorial tombstones to Hemi Maraea Ngarino Hoterene P. Kawiti and Arihia Karawha (Croft), two of the best known residents of the Bay of Islands.

The former was the wife of Maihi Par.aone Kawiti, father of Mr Te Riri Mahi Kawiti, resident at Waiomio. It was she who was largely responsible for establishing the Ngatihine tribe to the status of respect in which it is held. Unassuming, she was responsible for organising the catering of the large huis and other gatherings held by the clan.

Near Rapunga’s Marae.

Her memorial stands just off the main highway from the marae of Te Rapunga, Waiomio. Arabia Karawa, who lies next to her husband at the Waiomio Cemetery, was the mother of all her people regarding hospitality to the wayfarer, whatever his nationality might be. All denominations were represented at the unveiling ceremony, which was performed by Anglican clergy. The Rev. Canon W. H. Cherrington was assisted by Rev. Paki Matene,

and the Rev. Mane Te Paa, vicars of the Paihia and Whangarci Maori Mission districts respectively.

Life of Service

Canon Cherrington gave .a moving addi'ess from the text “My son, remember the days of thy youth,” Stating that the life of Heni Ngarino Kawiti demonstrated by service the meaning of true religion. He hoped that the new Maori would pause and meditate over her life and example.

The unveiling of the memorial to Heni Kawiti was then carried out in true Maori style.' Representatives of Northland and South Auckland tribes held the ribbons while Canon Cherrington read the dedication prayers.

Following the benediction orations were made by Messrs Pomare R. Kingi, of Otiria and Tau Henare, who both extolled the virtues, of the deceased.

Tributes To Arihia Karawha.

The whole asembly then moved to the historical burying ground, near the Limestone Caves to unveil, the second memorial. Similar procedure was followed.

Canon Cherrington spoke of Arihia and her husband as examples of humility, modesty and warm generosity*. Imagery and figurative language was much in evidence in the other addresses delivered by Messrs Pomare R. Kingi, Tau Henare, Te Riri M, Kawiti, Hoterene Cherrington and Uru Davis. “ ,

The large gathering then dispersed for dinner, which hasi been. prepared in true Maori style.