HAKA FOR DUTCH

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 3, Issue 285, 19 March 1941, Page 7

HAKA FOR DUTCH

MAORI SOLDIERS IN LONDON

Dutchmen in Husband saw Maoris perform a haka when the- 298 th anniversary of the discovery of New Zealand by Abel Tasman was celebrated at the New Zealand ForcesClub. I'll is is mentioned by Lieuten-ant-Colonel the Hon. F. Waite, D.5.0., M.L C., overseas commissioner for the National Patriotic Fund Board, in his latest report to the board.

Representnti ve Dutchmen were invited to the function. The High Commissioner for New Zealand (Mr W. J. Jordan) and Lord Cranbornc ■welcomed his Royal Highness Prince Bombard, of the Netherlands, and other distinguished representative Dutch statesmen, sailors, and soldiers. "A party of Maori soldiers -were present to renew the earliest contacts that were made between European and Maori," states Colonel Waite in his report. "The function was most successful." A song by the Maoris stimulated the Dutch officers and men to sing with great effect one of their own, and this drew forth a couple of hakas from the Maoris which were received with great enthusiasm. The Royal visitor was presented with a set of the latest New Zealand stamps, prepared by Colonel Waite. Copies of "England and the Maori Wars" were also presented to the Prince and other distinguished guests. The New Zealand Forces Club, which is supported financially by the National Patriotic Fund Board, has become, according to Colonel Waite, an important meeting ground for men from all parts of the Empire and Allied nations. A club for the New Zealand forces has also been established in Cairo, and the rent from this is paid by the board from the National Fund.

LUMINOUS CLOTHES BRITISH INGENUITY For their protection in blackouts, people in Britain wear pieces of A.R.P. cloth, .so treated that it glows in the dark if previously held in a bright light. A sample of ihe cloth has been received in Christchurch, and a trial showed its effectiveness. On a linen basis, there Is a rubber surface which glows with a blue green colour in the dark after having been exposed to a bright light for a minute or two. The cloth will glow for two hours.