NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 530, 4 January 1913, Page 4

NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS.

"FATHER OP TB KMTI." '■' '■■ v" The second annual gathering of natives and pakebas took place on Wed- ' nesday, at Mr Toki Anderson's ratidence in honour of his father, Mr T. Anderson, on his 87th birthday. The genial old gentleman looks bale and hearty, and is regarded by the natives of this district as a veritable : Patriarch, he being the only white man left out of those who first came iu to live with them, they always trusted and honoured him, and sought his ; advice on difficult matters at all '? times. He lived among thorn through ><' ! - those stirring Waikato wars, and was never known to betray the trait < i reposed in hiui by frieod or foe. Natives came from far and wide to [ show their full appreciation of bis ■ sterling qualities. Some 180 guests ' sat down to a sumptuous spread, beautifully laid ont under an awning '■'.'■>* ! of nikau palms. The viands warn served by his children, grandchildren; and relatives. The Oparure band was i in attendance and rendered several selections very creditably. Pnljrtjito , speeches were given by Pfttifißf i Maori, showing the esteem IfHHjL; Mr Anderson and family .anJgaHEf ! both races. • ; llyllf§ '' I Great credit and thanks ■ , Mr and Mrs Toki and Barney .MUmm' ■" > for the most enjoyable re-unlol^p?