MAORI WELCOME IN FRANCE.

North Otago Times, Volume CIV, Issue 13693, 7 October 1916, Page 4

MAORI WELCOME IN FRANCE.

HONOUR TO GENERAL PLUMER.

Major Buck (Te Rangihiroa), writing from "somewhere in France," on August sth, states that a characteristic welcome was given to Lieutcnant-iGene-ral Sir Herbert Plnmer, the commander. of the Second Army.,vßrltish Expedition! ary Force, by the Maori soldiers to whom the writer is attached. The reception took place before a very large crowd on a grassy spot at' the back of the general's residence. The Maoris were formed up in a hollow square \vith the haka party inside. When General [Plumer arrived he 1 was challenged 'by two men and was escorted to his scat in an open part of the srpiare. A general salute was then given by the Maoris, whose smart response to the word of command called forth exclamations of admiration and praise from the British officers present. .The haka was then given, after which Major Buck mado.a speech of welcome to the great chief of the Second Army. A Maori action song followed, and was warmly appreciated by General Plumer. In a happy speech, the general acknowledged the welcome that had been extended to him, Curiously, enough, writes Major Buck, fifgepl Plnmer's .regiment' is the 65th, Twch'' took part in the Maori War. In his' speech General Pjiumer referred to the Maoris as his comrades, and said they had made a name for themselves, and had added lustre to the fine traditions of the Maori race. General Sir Alexander Godley was present; and enjoyed the, proceedings very much,