OLDEN DAYS RECALLED

Southland Times, Issue 20208, 20 June 1927, Page 8

OLDEN DAYS RECALLED

NATIVE GATHERING AT NEW PLYMOUTH. OPENING OF MEETING HOUSE. (Per United Press Association.) New Plymouth, June 19. Scenes were witnessed at Parihaka to-day, strangely reminiscent of the days of the villages of former glory when it was the largest Maori town in New Zealand with a population of 2,000 Natives. Then Parihaka was the headquarters of the great prophets, Te Whiti and Tohu who held widespread influence over a large section of the Natives. It was to celebrate the opening of the ornate meetinghouse, erected to the memory of Tohu by hfe followers, that to-day’s gathering was held. Thousand's of Maoris from all over New Zealand and whites from all parts of the province were there and for the nonce, the historic stronghold lapsed into its former customs, visitors being welcomed in true Maori fashion. For days, preparations had been in train and huge stores of provender were laid in. They were all required for the Maoris right royally entertained both white and brown visitors. Though the Maori atmosphere predominated, a large proportion of pakehas intermingled with the crowd and without the gates of the secluded village was a strong contrast in hundreds of modern motor cars such as Parihaka had never seen. The meeting house was built by the Maoris themselves on modern lines from funds donated or earned by working parties extending over several years, at a total cost of £2,500, but wonderful value is represented for the money.