to so few”. The people of Ngatihine and Ngapuhi generally, owe much to the few who are doing so much to build these meeting-houses for the use of all. Built to cater for and accommodate our distinguished visitors—Land Court sittings, tribal gatherings, weddings, tangis—these buildings are destined to play their part in the social life of the district. And, as Sir Apirana Ngata said, the “Whare Whakairo”, or carved house, will instill into the young Maori pride of race and self-respect. The dining-hall after completion was called Tangariki Hall, after the ceremony of opening. This name is taken from an old Maori saying, which is still in use, and which goes to show how closely the eastern district was associated with Hokianga in the west. It tells of two springs, one in Hokianga, one in Otiria: “Te puna i tangariki te rere i Tiria.” There are other interpretations, but the one generally accepted refers to myriads of small eels that come up the rivers and streams in the late spring. These tiny fish, hardly three inches long, veritably climb up the Otiria falls, and continue their way up-stream in spite of all obstacles. It may be the Maori version of one of Solomon's proverbs in the Scriptures that refers to the industry and determination of the little ant. Who knows? When the carved meeting-house is completed, then another building will be added to the few of this kind of house in the North—one at Waitangi, and another at Mangamuka. Otiria dining hall.