Mrs Taka and Mr and Mrs Rawiri of Pokeno by one of the restored amo. Wearing his beautiful taniko cloak, Mr Holyoake chats to Mr Taane Nikora and Mr Naina Taka. red to the event as a milestone in the history of the Rangitane people. Commenting on the wisdom of incorporating in the new house the carvings of the old, he said, ‘It takes a lot of courage to overcome the emotional ties of the past and change to meet the demands of the modern age. ‘Now this area around Dannevirke can hold its tangis and meetings in a proper manner, with the proper facilities to look after visitors. Today, after years of hard work, the Ruahine Maori Executive Committee and the Maori people here can be justly proud of what they have done. ‘We see here today evidence of the changing needs and culture of the Maori people. You have successfully merged parts of your traditional past with your modern community centre and facilities. ‘I am pleased that you are working hard to maintain and even re-learn some of the great traditions of the Rangitane people.’ Action songs were performed by a local group, and the Waipatu group from Hastings, and the Latter Day Saints choir sang an anthem. The celebrations continued with a delightful hangi meal, and more speeches and items. The local people, in particular Mr Lui Paewai. are to be congratulated on their achievement in erecting this house and on the wellplanned opening ceremonies.