COROMANDEL.

Hawke's Bay Times, Volume V, Issue 256, 24 April 1865, Page 2

COROMANDEL.

(From the correspondent of the Daily Southern Cross).

April 14. I hare to report a movement that is taking place from tho Upper Hauraki to Coromandel. Since the deaths of a native chief, named Maihi* and a female relative, which occurred at the Tiki* distant about four miles from Kapanga, several natives of the different tribes from the Thames district have assembled to mourn for the deceased As a custom this is usual, but from information I* have received from reliable sources, there is reason to suppose that the subject of Pai Marirism will be discussed before they return to their homes. That there are emissaries from, the South, instilling into the minds of the natives on this side of the Thames the superstitious belief that is now gaining ascendancy in the minds of the Maori there is every reason to believe. It is currently rumoured here that a Pai Marire fanatic, named Eihori, was at Piako with the head of a European endeavoring to convert the natives. Taraia Ngakuta, a chief, and nearly all the native residents dents of Kauaranga, are on their way to Coromandel, where they intend holding a korero. Whatever transpires I shall report verbatim; the native language expressing in one word more’ significance than can be expressed in English in » sentence. Mr. Mackay, the Civil Commissioner is here, watching the current of events, aud will’ by his friednly intercourse with the natives, and also in his official capacity, tend to prevail upon them to abjure proseiytism, and urge the benefits that will accrue by their remaining faithful in their adherence to the rule of the Imperial Government. -» As yet the Europeans arc on the most friendly terms with the Maoris; and unless the policy that has hitherto been pursued in considering the native as a friend, equally amenable to the laws and to tho protection of the Crown, still prevail, wo may expect that many will be induced by their own kindred to look upon us with distrust. Tho prospecting party I mentioned in a former letter, who were about to proceed to the Thames in search of gold, have been advised to remain until the native meeting takes place. It is surmised that an obstruction will be placed in their way. The chief, Taipari, on whoso land they were to commence work, can bo depended on. His protection extends over the western shore of the Thames, and I may safely state that he will render them all the assistance in his power. However, a few days will show the animus that is entertained on this subject by the chiefs who are to assemble at Coromandel.