Maoris Put on Great Show For Mr. Eden

Chronicle (Levin), 8 February 1949, Page 5

Maoris Put on Great Show For Mr. Eden

J ROTORUA, Feb. 7. "I have never seen a show like it in my life, and I was sorry when it was over," stated Rt. Hon. Anthony Eden on the eve of his departure for Wellington this morning by car after a 48-hour visit to this district. He was referring to the reception and entertainment accorded him by the Taiporutu Club at Tamatekapua last night. Those who have frequently seen Maori honours accorded a distinguished guest, agreed with Mr Eden's opinion. Mr Eden arrived in Rotorua at 5.50 p.m. on Saturday by motor-car from Hamilton where he'put in a full day. Although travel weary he cheerfully greeted the 200 people who had waited for over an hour -4n front of his hotel, and who gave him a warm ^welcome. His charm of manner was remarked on by all with whom he caine in contact, and the reception at Ohinemutu, to which hundreds were imable to gain admittance, was a spontaneous appreciation of his engaging personality. After a free evening on Saturday, l Mr Eden, acconipanied by Comxnander X. H. Noble, D.S.O., M.P., Sir WiPiam Jaffrav, and Alessrs S. A. McNainara and D. A. Beresford, of the Internai Af^airs Department, aet out early . yesterday for Lalte Rotoiti as the guest of Mr N. Cole. He swam in the Lake and had a look at the beauty spots in the district. He returned to Rotorua in time for dinner and then was received on the Ohinemutu marae. Also present. at the reception were: the Mayor of Rotorua (Mr A. F. Mqncur) and the Minister of Educatipn (Mr McCombs).