The Tamaki Maori Culture Group Tamaki, Auckland

Te Ao Hou, December 1965, Page 40

The Tamaki Maori Culture Group Tamaki, Auckland This lively group started two years ago after a Maori Women's Welfare League conference. Established largely by the energies of Mrs Pare Harris, it began in the Church of England Hall, Glen Innes, with about a dozen children and a few mothers. When the larger Point England hall became available, the growing movement transferred there. Several groups, including the Tamaki Ratana Youth Organisation and the Rito Group, decided to work within it. Members are of many tribes, and their religious denominations include Methodist, Anglican, Catholic, Mormon and Ratana. The club has flourished to such an extent that every Sunday some 120 people—children, youths, mothers and a scattering of men—gather to practise action songs, haka and poi. The emphasis in the club is on the passing on of Maori cultural knowledge to the children, many of whom in their urban environment might otherwise have little opportunity for contact with this. Everyone, including the children, learn to make their own tipare (head band), piupiu (skirt), rapaki (kilt), tapeka (sash) and bodice. Membership is open to people of all races and religious denominations. Tutors include Mr Albert Pirini, Mrs M. Robson and Mrs R. McDowell. Officers include Mrs Harris, president; Mrs C. Hoani, vice-president; Mrs J. Hita, secretary; and Mrs M. Harris, treasurer. Mrs Hoani also helps in the tutoring. One of the most notable things about the group is that it has sprung up from the community without outside sponsorship. It is a movement by themselves and for themselves.