AMBITIOUS PROPOSAL

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 1, Issue 102, 20 December 1939, Page 5

AMBITIOUS PROPOSAL

GREAT MAORI GATHERING

the whakatane centennial

The setting up of a sub-commit-tee in connection with the forthcoming Whakatane Centennial eelebiations. which will be responsible foi organising a lull and comprehensive Maori programme to coincide with the opening of the Heads Park and other Pakeha features has been proceeding during the past two weeks. As a result of numerous enquiries it is now possible to announce the suggested programme in skeleton form.

Measures Avill be taken to make tlie occasion the greatest Maori gathering in the history of Whakatane. and if expectations are fulfilled, probably the largest native mus ter to be held during the Centennial celebrations. This will be possible through the decision of the Auckland committee suspending the Maori, programme.

It is thought that with the 4700 Maoris within the Whakatane district and many others who Avill be visiting the town on the day that the display can be made one that will live long in the memory of all who arc there to witness the pageantry of history which will he reenacted. The suggested date is Saturday, February 24. Details under consideration have been handed to the press and read as under : 9 a.m. Muster of tribes, hapus, and district groups in Sports Domain where light refreshments will be served. 9.45. Address by leading chief. Welcome by Pakeha school children 10.15. Procession to move olf in order of various tribal units, headed by respective cliicfs. As many as possible to wear native mats ancl ornaments. 10.45. Arrival at Pohaturoa Hock, where rc-enac'inent of signing of Treaty of Waitangi takes place, by descendants of actual signatories. Following reading of proclamation by Governor's representative.. Speeches by two selected cliiel tains and special haka. 11.30. Procession moves off to Pa where on the property of Mr A. O. Stewart, re-enactment of ceremonial planting of the first kumara from Matatua Canoe takes place. Principals to be selected by Maoris. Poi dance and song (women). Demonstration of planting the kumara lubers as done by old Maori ceremonial. 12.0. Luncheon provided by Maoris themselves at Wairaka meet-

ing house. 1.30 p.m. Grand procession to Heads, Maoris combining with Pake has to make good display, with town and country organisations. 2 p.m. Opening of Park. Special speakers. Maori speakers to be selected. Entertainment by Maori children. Public invited to enter nark and line banks on harbour side. 3 p.m. Special feature. Re-enact-ment of landing of Matatua canoe, manned by men and women of selected tribes. 3.30. Grand hui, or copper Maori. Visitors invited to attend at Wairaka meeting house, where food will be cooked in hangis and uncovered in traditional style and serv ed to visitors by the Maori hosts. During this period continuous pro gramme of Maori entertainment to be carried out to pre-arranged schedule. 5 p.m. Farewell speech, by chief. "Aroha Oe" by assembled Maoris. National Anthem. Entire gathering