Te Rangatahi

Te Ao Hou, September 1967, Page 49

Te Rangatahi So often we hear of the problems of Maori youth, so often we hear theorizing about the Maori language. Less frequently, however, do we hear of anything practical and concrete being done about these ‘problems’. At Northland College, in Kaikohe, from 14 to 16 July, over a hundred Maori post-primary students accomplished something very practical and very significant. Ropata Pouwhare, who attended the conference, reports on it.

We all slept on the campus in true marae fashion—on the floor—girls in one block, boys in another. The general tone within the living quarters suggested, and even ensured, that the hui would be a success. Traditional Maori songs were sung deep into the heart of the night and we conversed freely in our mother tongue. On Friday night, in the middle of the dance, the welcome was given. This dance played a very significant role. Not only was it enjoyable, but it helped to mix the young students, and we became better acquainted. On the domestic side of things, we are greatly indebted to Mrs Sadler and her team of workers who put on a really terrific show with their catering, waitressing, and the substantial and tempting kai. The hustling and bustling could be heard in the early hours of the morning—the ‘parakuihi’—when breakfast was being prepared. There were the rattle of empty dishes, the groans from a few of ‘how cold it is this morning’, and the slightly anaemic-looking toast, which was a great joke. Even then we were happy, and suddenly burst into song. However, we are also indebted to the guest speakers who willingly gave up their valuable time to come and speak to us. Mr Turua Royal spoke on The Future of the Maori Language. He gave us a stimulating and stirring talk on the importance of our language. ‘To be a well balanced person, one should consider one's Maori side of things,’ he said. He emphasized one important point—‘if a Pakeha is willing to learn let him learn.’ Miss Polly Hopa gave us an encouraging talk on Education. She spoke of ambition and confidence. She stressed that whatever opportunities there are, we should make the most of them. The Revd Marsden, who took the church service on Sunday, in Maori, spoke on Adjusting to City Life. He gave us an excellent picture of the problems and pitfalls that we, who moved to the towns, faced. Mr Matiu Rata, M.P., spoke on Maori Land and the controversial new Maori Affairs Bill. Dr M. N. Paewai took the floor towards the end of the conference and gave us an interesting picture of Our Future. On Sunday afternoon, before the conference was officially closed, under the leadership of Miss Hopa and Mrs Arapera Blanc. the students were taught action songs, which everyone enjoyed. At this point, it is fitting to mention the growing interest of the local press who published a stimulating commentary throughout the conference. Our student officers were: John Sadler, who acted as President, and Marjorie Rapatini. Secretary. A special mention must be made of the wonderful work and organisation Jacob Te Whata contributed. The conference, and the mingling of the students who came from all over Northland—from Te Kao to Wellsford, resultd in greater pride. It has made us aware of our cultural identity, and also taught us how to use our language with pride. We all left the conference with our heads held higher, with the invaluable and knowledgeable words ot our elders still fresh within us. Ropata Pouwhare. Marjorie Rapatini, Federation Secretary, with Mr Matui Rata, M.P. A discussion group on Maori land problems — Mervyn Tatana, John Sadler and Isobel Pou Mr Bill Hohepe of Northland College supervises the cooking