UNVEILING OF REWTS MONUMENT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 9493, 24 April 1894, Page 5

UNVEILING OF REWTS MONUMENT.

[BY TELEGRAPH.— CORRESPONDENT.] Kiuikihi, Monday. The unveiling of Rewi's monument took place to-day in the presence of a large assembly of Europeans and natives. There were present from Auckland : Mr. Seymour Thome George, Miss George, Messrs. James Mackay, Carrick, and Colbeck. The following is the correct translation of the Maori inscription on the monument :— "In memory of Rewi Maniapoto, the last great chief of Mgatimaniapoto Ngatiraukawa, Waikato, in these parts an upholder of good between the European and Maori nations, and constant supporter of the seal of the Treaty of Waibangi. At this time Rewi Maniapoto is still living, April Ist, 1894 ; born in the year 1807." The Rev. Mr. Wilson,' in surplice, etc., offered up a short prayer, which was followed by the Rev. Mr. Gittos, who in a neat speech eulogised the good qualities of the old chief, after which Mr. Seymour George, as the representative of Sir G. Grey, unveiled the monument, which was received with three rounds of blank cartridges by the natives. Speeches were also delivered by native chiefs, Messrs. Mackay, Wigg, and Johns of Te Awamutu, Mr. W. H. Grace acted as interpreter. Three cheers for Sir George Grey and Rewi, and the singing of the National Anthem, closed the proceedings. There is to be a great native feast this evening, and a Maori haka in the Town Hall.