MAORI COUNCIL.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 254, 24 September 1940, Page 6

MAORI COUNCIL.

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —A movement is on foot to re-es-tablish a Maori Council at Otaki as the central headquarters, the members to be composed of the recognised leaders and elders, including women. It is deemed to be an opportune moment, in view of the forthcoming gathering about the first week in October which will -assemble in Wellington to oppose the passing of a private Bill to sell the Otaki College. This instance proves the necessity of such a constituted body in order that proper means be available to preserve and defend the birthrights of the Maori people, embracing the tribes residing from Wellington to Palmerston North. Such institutions exist in centres in other towns, as at Ohinemutu Pah in the borough of Rotorua, where the Maori Council holds monthly meetings presided over by the Mayor of the borough or a . deputy from the Borough Council. This council is armed with authority to deal with misbehaviour and other offences against the law, imposes fines, and deals with minor offences. In addition a Maori policeman is appointed by the council to report any disturbances among the Maoris, many of which arise through intemperance, etc. The writer was a member of that council and therefore is conversant with the excellent seryice such a body is capable of performing.—Yours, etc., ALFRED COOK. Otaki, 23/9/40.