Valedictory.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 4855, 22 January 1894, Page 1

Valedictory.

Last Monday evening Mr Henry Parata, with his wife and family and Mr Tai te Tan, who have been spending their Christmas holidays in the South Island, were entertained at a social gathering at Puketeraki. There was a representative gathering of- Natives, and among those present were Mr T. Parata (M.H.R. for the Southern Maori district, and father of Mr Henry Parata) and all the prominent settlerß of the district. Mr George Taiaroa occupied the chair, and opened the proceedings by, saying that he was very glad to see such a large gathering of Maoris and Europeans to bid farewell to Mr Parata and his family and friend. He was very pleased to eee several Dunedm residents present. This showed that there was sympathy between the Europeans and Maoriß. He sincerely trusted that the feeling of goodwill at present existing between the two races would always continue. Mr Henzy Parata replied in appropriate terms. Mr Tai te Tau, in replying, hoped that the good feeling now existing between the Maoris and Europeans would always continue. Other speeches were made and songß and Maori ' hakas were given by several of those present. On Tuesday afternoon the Temuka Maoris entertained Mr Parata and party, and a very enjoyable time was spent. On Wednesday they were entertained at a farewell dinner. Mr Harry Parahu presided. Some excellent songs and Maori hakas were given.