RECRUITS FAREWELLED

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 111, 17 January 1940, Page 5

RECRUITS FAREWELLED

MAORIS MAKE MERRY REPRESENTATIVE GATHERING The Hokowhitu Atu Hall held a fathering of representatives of all tribes in the Matatua district on Saturday night, when a farewell dance was staged for the men leaving shortly to join the Maori Battalion in camp at Pafmerston North. Though the weather may have prevented some from attending, the hall was filled, and a care-free atmosphere prevailed throughout the evening". Mr J. Hohapata, who acted as M.C. welcomed the people and after an interval of dancing, several speeches were made. With the exception of Mr Hohapata all speakers expressed themselves in the Maori tongue, and all exhorted the recruits to uphold the traditions of the Maori race, comporting themselves with dignity whilst in New Zealand and proving themselves worthy on the field of battle. The following were the speakers: Messrs Keepa Tawhio (Ngati Hokopu), Awa Ratahi and Ngairo Aniheta (Xgaitaiwhakaeu), Akuhata Kiingi and Kerc Wano (Rangihoithiu). Hone Moeke and Romana Ratema (Ngati Pukeka), Mr Webb (Sporting), and J. Hohapata (Football Club). The reply on behalf of the twentyone recruits was made by Mr J. McCausland, who said that the boys appreciated the gesture made to them that evening, and they would not do anything to lessen the confidence placed in them by their people .They realised that it was not going to be all fun when they settled down to the serious part of their new calling, but, speaking for himself and his comrades, he could assure those present that they would do their best to maintain the traditions of earlier Maori soldiers fight ing for the Empire, and also the honour and proven valour of the whole Maori race. The recruits, who were assembled on the stage, sang the Maori Battalion song and. the "Beer Barrel Polka." A first-class supper was serv ed and dancing continued. The men due to leave for camp arc: T. Riini, H. Riini, T. Simpson, G. Haua. F. Bluett, J. McCausland, AV. Pirini, S. Aloeke, W. Wharewera, G. Wharewera, T. K. Waaka, A. H. Nowland, Iv. lvingi, D. Merito, K. Wahapango, W. Lambert, W. Keepa, J. Hona, H. Kupai, K. Lawson, S. Rangihika.