MAORI MEETING.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXIX, Issue 129, 24 July 1911, Page 4

MAORI MEETING.

SIR JAMES CARROLL ARRIVES (Per Press Association ) Auckland, July 2J.

Sir James Carroll arrived in Huntiy by the early express on Saturday morning from Wellingtpn, and in the afternoon proceeded to Waahi to attend the native meeting. On landing at the settlement, which they reached by launch, the party was met by a guard of honour, consisting of twentytwo native constables, and proceeded towards the marae. A number of women went in advance with branches of green shrubbery waving as an accompaniment to their gesticulations and welcoming the visitors to the marae, where Mahuta, Henare Kaihan and others, wore waiting to receive them. The visitors occupied the southern side of the square, the adult natives present being estimated at between 600 and 80(). About 50 representatives of the various lie pus stood in front of their followers, holding a white flag with the name of the hapu inscribed thereon. The opposition party, distinguished by a banner, were also present under Papa Kirkwood. The welcome given to the Minister was most cordial and hearty. Rain, which had fallen during the morning again commenced to fall heavily, and it was almost impossible to hear the speeches. Mahuta, in a brief speech, welcomed Sir James Carroll, and said bo was sure his presence would bo held for the settlement of the various points in dispute. Mr Henare Kaihan, M.P., and the Acting-Premier, then addressed the gathering. Subsequently Sir James Carroll, in reply to a question, stated that Mr Massey could have the fullest enquiry into the Mokau lease matter. Sir James Carroll will return to Wellington by to-night’s express. Auckland, .July 2-1-. Sir James Carroll, in a speech at the Maori meeting at Waahi, strongly urged the natives to allow Europeans to utilise their waste lands. Let the lands owned by individuals lie used by themselves; let those they cannot work with profit to themselves and where there are a largo number of owners bo worked in solid areas, having duo regard to how the land will be cut up for sale, lease, or farming. The speech was received with great applause. Sir James Carrol left for Weliingon by express on Sunday night.