ARAWA CHIEF DEAD.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20232, 16 February 1934, Page 5

ARAWA CHIEF DEAD.

Picturesque Rangatira of Old School. A RINGATU BISHOP. Per Press Association. ROTORUA, February 15. The death has occurred of Tutanekai Taua, of the Ngata Whakane, Rotorua, t aged about eighty-three years. Deceased was one of the last of the old school of Maori orators and was a most interesting link with the older customs of the Maori race. Fie is stated to - have been one of the few remaining 5 Rangatiras versed in the old Maori ritual and ceremonial. He was the last surviving bishop of - the Ringatu sect, founded by the famous Maori rebel leader Te Kooti, and 2 was the only person competent during his lifetime to consecrate Ringatu meeting houses. 5 He served in the loyal Arawa contint gent during the Maori wars and was a past master in handling Maori weapons. Tutanekai was a descendant of the t famous Arawa family of Haerehuka a and was regarded by all sections of the tribe with respect and veneration. He was prominent in Arawa ■welcomes to the Prince of Wales and the Duke and r Duchess of York during their visits to 1 the Dominion. He was unable to att tend the Waitangi celebrations owing to failing health. A large tangi is in progress at Ohinemutu. e