COASTAL GATHERING

Opunake Times, 30 May 1947, Page 1

COASTAL GATHERING

CATHOLIC MAORI CLUBS ENJOYABLE DAY On Sunday last, in brilliant sunshine, was held another meeting of the Federated Catholic Maori Clubs of the TaranakiWangamii area. Present at the gathering were representatives of the Wainui-a-Rua, Ngarauru, Yaranaki, Atiawa. The hosts for the occasion were the Coastal Ciub who received the visitors at the Puniho P^An open air mass began the -day, at which the large gather ing assisted with attention and reverence. This was followed by ccmpetitons of various kinds keenly watched by a very large and enthusiastic crowd. The afternoon's programme was brought to a close by a short religious service. In the evening, under the siarry skies the melodious voices of the participants in the action song competiton were heard to advantage. Rythmic poi, haka, ayaceful and grotesque, delighted the crowd and presented a difficult task for the judge, Mr. Pepini Ruka, of Ohakune. Prize giving' brought the evening to a close. Results were : Speeches (in Maori) Senior men (25yrs and over): Te KaT'onga Eruieti (Araukuku Club) Ist., Tauke Pratt (Bell Block Club) 2nd. Senior women: Mrs. 8. Pratt (Bellblock Club) Ist., Mis. R. Nuku (Bellblock Club) 2nd. Junior women (under 25yrs): Miss T. Matuku (Waitar a Club) Ist.. Miss B. Moa (Araukuku Club) 2nd. Junior men: Mr. D. Robinson (Araukuku Club) Ist., Mr. W. Stewart (Kia Ora, Opunake Club) 2nd. The final of the football tournament was played at a fast and open pace and had the largo crowd yelling with excitement. The winners were Motu< roa, New Plymouth and runnervn, Oeo-Manaia-Otakeho (combined). The final of the Basketball 1 ournanient was an eye-opener, the fast passing and position play of both teams reflecting great credit on the coaches. Results, Waitara Ist., Moturoa 2nd. The Hymn Competiton was judged by Mrs. Hurley of Pungarchu who said that the singing of the winning team was of a high standard. Results, Araukuku. Ist.. Bell Block 2nd. The Action song, Poi and Haka competition was thoroughly enjoyed and two teams had to appear again before the judge decided the winner. Results, Araukuku 1 st., ■ Bell Block 2nd. The aggregate prize for which there is a special shield was won bv Araukuku (Normanby District). Waitara being runners-up.