Young Maori Man and Woman of the Year

Te Ao Hou, December 1968, Page 28

Young Maori Man and Woman of the Year Mrs Letty Brown of Te Atatu, receives the Wi Tako Trophy as ‘Young Maori Woman of the Year’ National Publicity Studios The Minister of Maori Affairs, Mr J. R. Hanan presents Mr Apanui (Neil) Watene with the ‘Young Maori Man of the Year’ Award

One of the highlights of the Maori Council's ‘Focus on Maori Youth Week’ was the presentation of the ‘Young Maori Man of the Year’ and ‘Young Maori Woman of the Year’ awards. Mrs Letty Brown of Te Atatu, who had been chosen the winner at the Maori Women's Welfare League Conference in Whangarei, received a medallion, $100, and the Wi Tako Trophy. In addition, $900 was placed in trust to be used by Mrs Brown in her communtiy work. Similar cash awards and a medallion were given to the ‘Young Maori Man of the Year’. Mr Apanui (Neil) Watene, son of the late P. T. Watene, M.P., who has followed his father as welfare officer at the Gear Meat Company, Petone. The cash awards and medallions were given by Sir Jack Butland, and his generosity was praised by speakers at the function, Sir Turi Carroll, president of the Maori Council, Mrs Miria Karauria, president of the Maori Women's Welfare League, and the Minister of Maori Affairs, Mr J. R. Hanan, who made the presentations. Speaking on behalf of Sir Jack Butland was Mr K. Simich. About 300 guests attended the function, held at the New Zealand Display Centre. Entertainment was given by Maori artists.