THE DUKE’S VISIT

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVIII, Issue 19946, 2 November 1934, Page 5

THE DUKE’S VISIT

MAORI RECEPTION By Telegiapu Kress- Association ROTORUA, November 1. Fears that the Maori reception to the Duke of Gloucester would be embarrassed as a result of Sir Apirana Ngata’s resignation, were set at rest as a result of a statement made here 1 by a leader of the Arawa people. He said: “Speaking as one of the leaders of the race, I desire to state that although we have our troubles, very big troubles, just now, they cannot affect the loyalty and warmth of the reception that will be extended to the scion of royalty, and the greatgrandson of Queen Victoria, whose signature is attached to the great Magna Charta of Maori rights and liberties under the Constitution, namely, the Treaty of Waitangi. We know the quality of the patriotism of the ex-Native Minister to his people, and his sense of duty to King and country, and great as is the wound of spirit he has received, I know he will rise superior to the occasion, and call upon the race, north, south, east, and west, to forget the present travail, and with the Patus Taraha or Tewhatewha leaders will greet the King’s illustrious son, and the thunder of the haka and the twirling of poi balls will be expressive of the warmth and depth of the race’s loyal welcome.”