THE MAORIS.

Ohinemuri Gazette, Volume XXIX, Issue 3997, 22 November 1918, Page 2

THE MAORIS.

Most distressing reports were received concerning the natives at the various settlements, and especially so at Waitoki. A general meeting of the committee was convened yesterday morning at 9.30 o'clock, when it was decided to accept the offer of the Ohinemuri Jockey Club for the use of the new totalisator house, and equip it as an hospital for the Maoris. With commendable speed about forty beds were improvised and all other necessary arrangements made. Early in the afternoon thirty-two cases we"c admitted. Mrs Stock, assisted by Messrs W. H. Taylor, Cameron, and Hubbard, took charge. A trained nurse is expected to arrive to-day.

Upon going out to the Waitoki pa the committee found natives huddled in one whare while in the room adjoining were the bodies of two Maoris who had died. While the rescuers were getting the Maoris away a little boy of about ten years of age died. This place is described as being filthy beyond description, and some of the other settlements are little better.

All the clothing worn by th? Maoris has had to be discarded, ami an urgent appeal for garments, both for men and women, and also old blankets, is made by the executive committee.

His Worship the Mayor has received a wire from Dr. Frengley authorising the supplying of food and medicine to the Maoris.