MAORI VILLAGES

Southland Times, Issue 19986, 28 September 1926, Page 10

MAORI VILLAGES

NATURAL CHARM DESTROYED. ANCIENT ARTS DISAPPEARING. SCHEMES FOR REMODELLING. The Government’s proposals to remodel the native villages of Whakarewarewa and Ohinemutu will do much to add to the attractiveness of what is already a unique thermal resort, reports the Rotoura correspondent of the New Zealand Herald. Standing on the shores of the lake, Ohinemutu, while lacking the thermal wonders of Whakarewarewa, has a magnificent setting. At present it is marred by a collection of ramshackle European dwellings in which the fine type of Maori inhabiting the village is seen at his worst. Only here and there are any traces of ancient Maori art to be seen, and the present blend of what is worst in European architecture and a scant representation of the real Maori arts and crafts is most incongruous. Incidentally, a good sprinkle of what must be unauthorised rubbish tips does not add to the attractiveness of the area. The Rotorua Maoris for the most part are unspoiled by civflisation, but their present environment is not inspiring. Both Whaka and Ohinemutu want, not only a good clean up, but a town-planning enterprise which will preserve or* restore the native type of dwelling, combined, of course, with proper sanitary arrangements. Whaka is even worse than Ohinemutu in this respect. The whole settlement is in such a condition as to make the visitor wonder why the Government did not take action long ago. Some of its wonders are hidden in dingy backyards and others are obscured from view by the crudest and ugliest fences. The cost qf reconstruction should not be great. In Ohinemutu, for instance, the most unsightly buildings are probably the least costly and their alterations or demolition will not involve any great outlay. If the Government sets out seriously on its proposed town-planning scheme it will only be undertaking a reform which should have been carried out years ago.