Council's Tribute To Maori Entertainers

Chronicle (Levin), 13 August 1949, Page 2

Council's Tribute To Maori Entertainers

"These good. Maori people have rendered outstanding serviee on many i oCcasions. Their unique items never failed to create a very fine -impression indeed when they perforpied before overseas visitors during ihe war years." This comment was made by the Mayor, Mr. C. F. Atmqre, when discussing.a communication before the council fronFMrs. H. Te'Hana, who asked the co.uhcil to assist in procuring twelve 'additional piupius, to ) be used in connection with the unveiling of the Maori War Memorial. "I am very much in favour an'd wou'd like to assis ," continued Mr. Atmore, who .advised councillors that "the Government was happy at all times to have these people entertain their guests, but an application forwarded by me for help met wi;h a very disappointing response."

Other councillors spoke m support of the views .expressed by the. Mayor, stating that while so happiiy entcrtaining overseas visitors che Maori people were doing much by way of advertising Otaki. Cr. Hakaraia adyised that 24 piupius had been ordered, and 12 of the number ha-d been paid. for. His peop e were finding difflcuity in raising the additional amount required,. with so many calls being made. He asked. "that the council be the custodian 'of the 24 piupius when they arrived, as their value was appreciated. The appiicaaon was granted and a subsidy on the amount to be paid is to be sought.