Captain Pirimi Perarika Tahiwi

Te Ao Hou, 1970, Page 3

Captain Pirimi Perarika Tahiwi ‘Prim’, as he was known to young and old, died at his Island Bay home at the age of 78. He was born in Otaki and educated at Otaki Maori College, Te Aute College and Wellington Teachers' College. Before and after the First World War he was a teacher, and resident Master at Otaki Maori College until the Second World War. He went overseas with the pioneer Maori Battalion, and soon attained the rank of Captain. He served in Egypt, Gallipoli, France, Belgium and for a period did garrison duty on the island of Malta. He was severely wounded at Gallipoli, and was evacuated to England. During his convalescence he was asked to command the New Zealand troops through London to attend the first ANZAC service ever held — conducted by the Bishop of London in Westminster Abbey. During the Second World War he served as instructor with the Maori Battalion from 1939 to 1944. He had great pride in his Maoritanga, and taught Maori language and culture for many years. He was president of the Wellington Tribal Committee for 15 years, and for a long time was honorary welfare officer in the Levin-Otaki area. With his wife he went on the Gallipoli pilgrimage, conducting a special service in honour of his Maori people, in memory of his fallen brethren, advancing slowly to the memorial, greenstone mere in his hand, and reciting Maori laments. His funeral service was held in St Paul's Cathedral, Wellington, and many, from all walks of life, came to pay him tribute. After'tributes at Raukawa marae, the final committal service was held in Rangiatea Church. He is survived by his wife, Mairatea Tahiwi, M.B.E. Haere e Pirimi Haere ki te Po Haere ki te Okiokinga Haere ki tatou Ariki Haere ki o Tupuna