MAORI ART.

Waikato Times, Volume 100, Issue 16813, 3 June 1926, Page 5

MAORI ART.

4— MODEL VILLAGES AT ROTORUA. A COMAUSSION APPOINTED. (By Telegraoh.—Press Association."! WELLINGTON, Wednesday. The beauty of Maori art has never been challenged, and the Prime Minister, in his capacity as Native Minister, has made it clear that the Government is willing lo assist in its perpetuation. True native architecture is unfortunately not rellected in the type of buildings that have been erected in some of tho most frequented tourist resorts, especially at Whakarewarewa. As the result of a promise made by Mr Coatcs in February last, a commission has been appointed to inquire into and report upon the necessity or advisability of establishing model villages on the present sites at Ohineinutu and Whakarewarewa (Rotorua). It is hoped lo induce the Maoris to apply some of their own distinctive art in the construction of dwellings and planning of their villages. The commission will consist of Messrs C. J. McKenzie (acling-Engi-neer-in-Chicf of the Public Works Department), P. R. B. Hammond (town planning consultant of Auckland), J. T. Mair (Government architect), H. T. Mitchell (surveyor, Rotorua), and Dr. P. 11. Buck (Director of Maori Hygiene). Mr McKenzie will act as chairman.