MAORI VOLUNTEERS

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 117, 31 January 1940, Page 5

MAORI VOLUNTEERS

FAREWELL AT RUATOKI TRADITIONAL CUSTOMS OBSERVED

Last week was a red letter day at Ruatoki when-members of the Maori contingent were farewellcd with old time ceremony by the assembled elders and chiefs from all parts of the Matatua district. The proceedings lasted a full day and were concluded in the Anzac Hall with a well at-

tended social'. It is interesting to note that these ceremonies Avill only be employed for the initial body of men leaving the settlement, as in accordance with Maori ideas the mana so enjoined will descend upon all subsequent groups who will depart for war service. The men honoured were Te Tihi,

Tc Whetu Ereatara, Toto Rangiaho. Raymond Hohua, Tuhoi W ahaki, Wbaretapu Watere, Hoani Turei, George Walker, Whareharakeke Hauwai, W. P. Rangi, Hinei Hawera Kaipaiii. Lunch and dinner were provided at the Otenuku where later in the afternoon a Soldiers' Farewell Committee was formed for the purpose of setting up a permanent organisation to attend to the departure of future contingents. Speakers Avho spoke in farewell were Messrs Jas Merritt (Native Department and R.S.A), Takarua lamerau, Eruiti Pcere, Wiremu Trainor, Tare Manehere, Taane Hauraki, Timi Ereatara and Rev Wharetini Rangi. The ' conduct of the ceremonial was in the capable hands of Mi* lari Manihira. At the social evening the Maori speakers confined thei ! r remarks to advice to the departing recruits, and to thanks to the Europeans present for their interest. Pakehas speaking in reply Ave re Messrs W. Richardson, T. McGorigan, T. Garlick, R. Webb and T. Davis. Replies for the recruits themselves were made by Messrs Paki Poivwharc and Hoane Turei, Avhilc enjoyable solos Avere supplied by K. Rangi and H. Turei. Several action songs and hakas AA'ere giA'en by the young people.