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Te Ao Hou, September 1966, Page 45

Awataha girls in action, led by Elaine Tuuta of the Chatham Islands. twice weekly. The senior members were taken away for a weekend houseparty by Mrs Stiles and Mrs Timutimu (then Kiwi Kaa) when the whole time was devoted to waiata, haka, chant, hymn, stick games, whai and weaving (He rourou). Marguerite Foxon, then a schoolgirl, showed such aptitude that she became the club's first Concert Party Leader. In 1965 the number grew to 40, and now the girls are so keen, membership has had to be restricted to 5th and 6th Form pakeha girls. Maori pupils may join at any age. Several girls from Te Wai Pounamu belong to the club, and there is a bond of friendship between the two groups. The girls have performed in public on many occasions, and are usually invited to participate in functions organised by the local Maori Community. They have pare and tipare for 35 girls, but so far only 12 piupiu. Twenty five more are ordered. This year the Concert Party Leader is Evelyn Tuuta of the Chatham Islands, an ex-Te Wai Pounamu girl, who is now a day pupil at Avonside. Miss Foxon and a Canadian 6th Form girl. Anne Fowler, provide guitar accompaniment when necessary. After a visit to Christchurch by girls of Queen Victoria School, when several of the visitors were billeted by Avonside pupils, tape recordings have been exchanged between the two clubs. It is hoped that some members of the club will be able to visit East Coast maraes during the first week of the Christmas School holidays. The leaders acknowledge their indebtedness to the late Canon Kaa and his family, and to Henare and Mere Toka, who have given richly of their support. We would be glad to hear from secretaries of Maori Clubs not so far included in this series of articles. Please send details to Te Ao Hou at Box 2390, Wellington.