Mr Tiaki Hira

Te Ao Hou, December 1963, Page 64

Mr Tiaki Hira A widely acknowledged leader of the Waikato-Maniapoto peoples, Mr Tiaki Hira (generally known as Jack Hira) has died at Tuakau, aged 88. Mr Hira was the speaker for three Maori kings—the late King Mahuta, the late King Rata and the present King Koroki. He spoke on their behalf at meetings in many parts of the North and South Islands. Born in Onewhero in 1875, Mr Hira was one of the first pupils of St. Stephen's School, which was then in Parnell. He farmed in the Tuakau area nearly all his life until his only son, Mr Johnny Hira, took over 11 years ago. Steeped in Maori tradition, Mr Hira was popular and respected figure in Tuakau. He was a strong supporter of the late Princess Te Puea Herangi, and like her and many other Maori chiefs and leaders, he was buried on Taupiri Mountain. Mr Hira is survived by his wife and son. We are always grateful to those readers who send us obituary notices. They should be sent to The Editor, ‘Te Ao Hou’, Box 2390, Wellington. [Registered at the G.P.O., Wellington, for transmission through the post as a magazine.]