Thomas Taitapanui Well known in Te Karaka and the surrounding area as Tommy Rutene, Thomas Tuta Taitapanui died suddenly as he cycled through the township. For about 20 years Mr Taitapanui worked for the Ministry of Works, maintaining the state highway between Waipaoa and Waikohu, and was known to the majority of residents in the district. The son of Mr and Mrs Rutene Taitapanui, he was born at Rakaiketeroa near Te Karaka in 1905, and at an early age came with his parents to live in the township. He completed his education at Te Aute. In 1924 Mr Rutene was married to Matilda Parata of Tokomaru Bay. Though handicapped by almost total deafness, Mr Rutene had a wide interest in community affairs, particularly in the Te Karaka Fire Brigade and the St John's Ambulance Association. Mr Taitapanui is survived by his wife and family, James, Lovey, Charlie and Tuta.

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

POLYNESIAN MIGRATION MEMORIAL The Cook Islands Library and Museum Society invites entries for a competition to design a Memorial to be erected in Rarotonga to commemorate the migration and voyages of the Polynesian people. The Memorial is to be erected close to the place from which the Great Fleet is reputed to have left for New Zealand. The design should be such that the Memorial can be erected for approximately $2,000 in permanent materials. The prize for the winning design will be $50. For full conditions relating to this competition, please write to: The Secretary, Cook Islands Library and Museum Society, RAROTONGA