NATIVE GATHERING AT WAAHI

Otago Daily Times, Issue 16293, 28 January 1915, Page 7

NATIVE GATHERING AT WAAHI

IMPORTANCE TO THE MAORIS.

(Fbom Otjb Own Cobsespowdent.) NEW PLYMOUTH, Jannary 27. One of the largest and most important gatherings of Maoris held on the Coast for many vearsis now being held at Waahi, every pftrfc of Nortli Island represented. There are over 3400 present, including the Hon. Dr Pomare. Among; the noted chiefs are Hira Parata, of Wai- , kane, son of the late Wi Parata, for many years a member of the House of Representatives ; Pieri Taipu and Rawu, chiefs from Otaki; Te Puri (Mrs M'Gregor), at Wanganui, a chieftainess of high rank, who some little time ago was elected car ' nival queen of Wanganui; Waihaniai, a Wanganui chief; Te Kono, of Kirioro; as well as several others who are tribesmen of repute. There will be discussed matters of great interest to the Maori race, and the Minister will give his views on various political subjects. A subject to be dealt with exhaustively - is that pertaining to the industrial welfare : of the Maori, particularly in regard tio farming. The Hon. Dr Pomare, as a member of the Massey Government,, is expected to place tho claims for support", before the race. Mr J. J. Hipano, with a band of willing ! helpers about the district, has, made com-, ■ plete arrangements for the entertainmentof the visitors. It hyas been explained that while tho meetings of the old days did not mean very much, such a gathering as the present," when the Maori race it "iore enlightened, is of the most valtM. '