MAORI GIRLS' COLLEGE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19892, 10 March 1928, Page 12

MAORI GIRLS' COLLEGE.

OPENING OF NEW BUILDING.

GIFT OF PRESBYTERIANS.

MODERATOR'S TRIBUTE TO RACE.

[BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT. ] MARTON. Friday.

It was a memorable occasion in the history of the Presbyterian Church and of the Maori race yesterday when the handsome now Maori Girls' College, which lias been erected to replace the old college at Turakina at a cost of about £17,000, was officially opened by the moderator of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, the Rev. James Aitken, of Gisborne. There was a large attendance, including prominent Presbyterian clergy and loading representatives of the Church from all parts of the Dominion. The keynoto of the whole ceremony was contained in the moderator's statement: " This building, shall be for generations to come a monument to the good feeling and confidence which subsists between Maori and Pakeha."

In the course of an inspiring address Mr. Aitken congratulated the Home Mission Committee on the consummation, after their many hours of work, worry and prayer, of their efforts for the collego. The structure had been beautifully planned, and both insido and out the work had been well carried out, and reflected credit on those responsible. The Turakina College had a wonderful record, and had built up wonderful ideals, and now they not only had records and ideals to be proud of, but had a fine school also.

"Thi3 building," said Mr. Aitken, "is a gift-to the Maori race, and it is gratifying indeed to hear members of the race speak in such appreciative terms of our work in their interests."

Mr. Aitken said they had learned to esteem tlio Maoris for the many good qualities which they wero known to possess. In the Maori wars they were known as chivalrous and courageous enemies, and in more recent years when Maori and Pakeha fought side by side for British liberty, they were known as brave and loyal friends. "These are not their only qualities," he continued. "Their dignity and courtesy, which do so much to oil the wheels of social life, their friendliness and kindliness, which are well nigh unfailing, are peculiarities of the Maori which we white people could adyantageously copy. (Applause.) Idc sincerely pray that untold blessings may be poured down upon the Maori people for many years to como."