FUNERAL OF METE KINGI.

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 4461, 2 October 1883, Page 2

FUNERAL OF METE KINGI.

[per press association.] A grand military funeral— that of Mete Kingi — took place at the Mission Cemetery, Putuki, on Monday afternoon, in the presence of five thousand spectators, including eleven hundred Maoris from all parts of the North Island. The pallbearers were twelve chiefs of high rank, including Major Kemp, Wi Parata, and Renata, of Hawke's Bay. The Native Minister, the Mayor of Wanganui, Mr. W. P. Watt, M.H.R. ; Mr. Lewis, Under Secretary ; and other officials, and crowds of Europeans and natives followed the coffin from the pah to the grave. About 2.30, the Volunteers were present under ihe command of fi'ajor Stapp, and fired three volleys over the grave. The burial service oZ the Church of England was read by the Rev. R. S. Grace and the Maori clergymen. The ("ay, which was fine and warm, was observed as a close public holiday. Mr. Grace delivered a short address at the grave— first in Maori and then in English — referring to Mete Kingi's friendship and service to the Pakeha, and his loyal support of the Government.