A NATIVE FUNERAL.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIII, Issue 7, 6 May 1912, Page 5

A NATIVE FUNERAL.

HEMI MATENGA’S TANGI. (Ter Association.) Wakapuaka, May 5. The funeral obsequies of the late Henii Matonga (Martin), husband of Julia Martin, the Grace Darling of New Zealand, were conducted this afternoon at the native burial ground, Wakapuaka, near Peppin’s Island, and within a few miles of the Eastern Extension cable station. The deceased being a well-known and noted Maori chieftain, was responsible for a large attendance of influential natives from all parts of the Dominion. For upwards of a week it was impossible to engage a vehicle from any stable in Nelson for the funeral. The vehicles wore numbered in hundreds at the pa, and for significance the tangi will never again be equalled in the Nelson district. It will cost over £6OO. The burial service was conducted by the Yen. Archdeacon Grace and the llev. Mr Bennett. Subsequently elaborate preparations were made for entertaining the visitors, who were sumptuously provided for.

An old identity informs n Press Association representative that lie was present at the wreck of the Delaware, and the deceased, as well as his wife, lent valuable assistance in life-saving; also that on one occasion he crossed from Kapiti Island to Wakapuaka in a« open canoe.

The deceased leaves a large and valuable estate, which is being freely discussed locally, portions being very fertile. Suggestions are being made that the Government .should attempt to acquire the estate for closer settlement.