CREMATION OF MAORIS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 7875, 18 May 1887, Page 5 (Supplement)

CREMATION OF MAORIS.

Wiremu Katene, an important chief of the Ngaputu tribe, telegraphdfrom Parnell, on April the 18th, complaining that the evil arising from the prophesying of Ani Karori is increasing, and that the Natives have burnt the bodies of their dead in fires. He objects to this, and states that the chiefs of the Ngaputu are considering the objectionable practice which has already taken place at Ngaputu and Oramara. He asks for the opinion of the Government. The Native Minister, in replying, expressed his regret that the innovation should disturb the mind of the local Natives, but points out that the innovation is carried out in Europe and is tolerated by Europeans who adhered to old customs. 'He suggested that the Natives should take no notice of the cremations, and the practice will soon die out. Katene wired yesterday that the Minister apparently did not understand the facts. The motive was that the body should be burnt as a sacrifice to their god, and even if their god wera to order them to eat their dead they would do it. He considers it a most dreadful act. Mr Ballance now advises the chiefs to call all their people together to discuss the matter, so as to create a public feeling, and, if possible, to bustle the woman out of the district.