In Praise of Hauhauism

Feilding Star, Volume VIII, Issue 118, 12 April 1887, Page 3

In Praise of Hauhauism

Tim Poverty Bay Independent of recent date says: Though the prevailing opinion of " Jlauhauism" amongst the Europeans is that it is a religion of rapine and murder, partially on account of Te Kooti being one of its most prominent disciples, the fact is that the Natives who belong to this eeot are, as a rule, the most trustworthy, truthful, honest, and hospitable of their race. They adhere to the best of their ancient traditions, keeping away as much as possible frem contact with the Europeans and their destroying vices, which are more easily learnt by a semi-civilised people than their better qualities. Last week a large and influential gathering of Natives met at Bakaiketeroa to celebrate the. opening of the "Hauhau" Church, also to discuss Native land legislation and matters political bearing en iho welfare of the Maori race. The whole proceedings were carried out in strict conformity with tile simplicity of their ancient ideas. Intoxicating liquids weia conspicuous by their absence, "but food there was in plenty, cooked and served after the manner of their forefathers. In accordance with the rites of the orthobox " Hauhau'' religion, services were held at sunrise, noon and sunset. It touched a sympathetic chord in the hearts of the few Europeans present to observe how, in the open air, the oldest and the youngest gathered around a venerable old Native Pasior, whose fong white flowing and dignified air, coupled with the attention and solemn earnestness of the audience, made an impression not soon forgotten, bringing to one's mind the description of how the Klghm Fathers first worghipped and paid adoration to their (Jod and Maker in the wilds of America, and which has been so toucbingly described by the American poet, Bryant. '