Kupu Whakamihi

Tu Tangata, Issue 32, 1 October 1986, Page 61

Kupu Whakamihi

Mrs Ranui Ngarimu

Te Ataarangi and flax weaving are just two of the interests of Mrs Ranui Ngarimu, who has been voted by her peers, West Coast Woman of the Year. The award came from the Greymouth Business and Professional Women’s Club for her notable contribution of service to the community, as well as fulfilling her family role.

She has been a foundation member of the Matauranga Maori Cultural Club and has helped many local organisations including scout and guiding groups. Mrs Ngarimu is a mother of five and a teacher’s aide at Otira School. Nga Puna Waihanga are soon to see a local branch of the Maori Artists and Writers in Otira, under the formation of Ranui. She is also vice-president of the Arthur’s Pass Search and Rescue Society, treasurer of the Otira Railway Social Hall Committee, vice-president of the South Island Maori Netball Association, a member of the Westland REAP management committee and a

trustee of St Christopher’s Church of Otira. Mrs Ngarimu’s service has stretched back many years, as she was the tutor and leader of the West Coast contingent in the powhiri to the British Queen and family and assembled athletes at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch. The nomination for the award came from the Kotuku Maori Women’s Welfare League. In accepting the award, Mrs Ngarimu said she did so on behalf of all Maori women who worked silently and diligently to uphold mana maori.