TRIBUTE TO MR SAVAGE

Southland Times, Issue 23000, 21 September 1936, Page 7

TRIBUTE TO MR SAVAGE

Rotorua Maoris

GIFT OF WALKING STICK

(United Press Association.)

Wellington, September 19. A picturesque ceremony took place at Parliament Buildings when the Ngati Ruumata people, a sub-tribe of the Arawas in Rotorua, presented the Rt. Hon. M. J. Savage, Minister of Native Affairs, with a handsome carved walking stick. The presentation was made by Mr A. F. Moncur M.P. (Rotorua) in association with the Hon. Rang! Mawhere M.L.C. There is an interesting tradition associated with the stick which is carved to represent tuatara lizards. The forefathers of the people responsible for the gift were never beaten in battle as two lizards in the lake close to their pa always gave warning of the approach of an enemy, thus giving the tribe time to prepare. The inspiration behind the gift was that the two lizards would give warning to the Native Minister and that he would always be victorious. Mr Savage, in expressing his heartfelt thanks for the gift, reiterated his affection for the Maori people and said he hoped to visit Rotorua shortly, when he would extend his personal thanks for their generosity.