Mr Robert Tangiono Tapa

Te Ao Hou, March 1965, Page 63

Mr Robert Tangiono Tapa Mr Robert (Bob) Tangiono Tapa, of Ranana, prominent leader of the Maori people in the Wanganui River district, died at Wellington last December. He was aged 65. Born in Wanganui, he spent most of his youth in Rata and Parikino. After serving in France and Gallipoli with the New Zealand Maori Pioneer Battalion during the first world war, Mr Tapa settled in Ranana. For a time, he worked on Morikau Station under the late Mr Gregor McGregor. Later he bought land of his own which he farmed until his death. In 1929 he acted as foreman of the Ranana development scheme and later, when Morikau was incorporated, he became a foundation member of the committee of management. He also served as vice-chairman and chairman of the advisory committee of Ohorea Station on the Parapara Road, and was a member of both committees at the time of his death. An executive member of the Wanganui River Settlers' Association, Mr Tapa was very active in all tribal affairs. He was a life-long supporter of the Roman Catholic Mission in the Wanganui River area. Mr Tapa was related to every hapu from Taumarunui to Wanganui.