OFFICIAL ORATORS.
COOK ISLAND CUSTOM. In acknowledging the greetings of the Poverty Bay Maoris at Poho-o-Rawiri last week, the Rarotongan chief, Makea Tinerau, spoke slowly and at times gave an impression that public speaking was not without its trials for him. The explanation lies, probably, in the fact that in his own land, Tinerau seldom makes a direct address, even in tribal gatherings. It is the custom for chieftains of the Cook Islands to employ official orators, who, enjoying the full confidence of their respective chiefs, are charged with tlm responsibility of expressing their views and of composing fitting oral contributions to all debates in which their chiefs hgure. The custom is one that furnishes entirely satisfactory results to all concerned, and sets a high standard of vocal expression among the islanders.
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New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 21067, 29 December 1931, Page 10
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132OFFICIAL ORATORS. New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 21067, 29 December 1931, Page 10
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