conferences of this nature should be encouraged. After every session, students were given questions to discuss in groups. They were also encouraged to question, discuss and state their opinions. The conference gave students from as far away as Ngaruawahia and Tauranga the opportunity to discuss some of the problems that they face in gaining higher academic qualifications. Perhaps one of the most important aspects was that they had a chance to mix with Maori graduates and Maori university and training college students. Much inspiration and guidance was gained from them. Furthermore, it gave an opportunity for teachers and parents to discuss their difficuties in relation to their pupils and children. It was rewarding to see so many parents—even from Tauranga (Mr & Mrs Bill Ohia, Mr Rolleston, etc.). The conference also gave the students an opportunity to act as responsible people where they had to take the lead, such as in chairing a group or passing a vote of thanks. If the conference has helped the pupils towards success then it has been through the efforts of all people concerned in Thames. Kia ora Koutou e Ngati Maru! T. K. Royal

Northland Maori Youth Conference Because of the undoubted success of last year's conference organised by the Northland College Maori Students Federation, the Principal of Kaitaia College, Mr J. M. Mitchell was most agreeable that his school be the venue for this year's conference, held from 26–28 July. Eight fifth and sixth form students organised the whole programme, and Mr P. Joyce, School Guidance Counsellor, was available as an adviser.

Accommodation and Catering Sleeping was arranged marae-style in two classrooms, with parents, relatives and friends rallying around making mattresses and linen available and providing chaperones. All meals were cooked and served in the college's homecraft block. Much of the food was donated, some was made available at wholesale rates, and groups of students gathered sea-foods, providing a wellbalanced diet. Seven of the eight members of the committee; from left; Vicki Berghan, Stan Pilbrow, Marilyn Maheno, Kevin Walker, Ann Heta, Jerry Norman and Katie Michael. Not shown is the group's chairman, George Tawhai. ‘Northern Advocate’ photographs

Entertainment Introductions were made in the relaxed atmosphere of a ‘Welcome Dance’ on Friday evening, and on Saturday, an hour of sport in the afternoon and an impromptu concert in the evening made welcome breaks from the more serious study and discussions.

Programme An interesting panel of guest speakers contributed to the conference, but the main