Maori War Veteran

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 29, 4 February 1937, Page 6

Maori War Veteran

MAJOR F. W. GARNER CELEBRATES 89TH BIRTHDAY It is a fur cry these days to the Maori wars but to Major Frank W. Garner they are as vivid as if they had happened only yesterday. He is one of tho few remaining militiamen who saw active service against tho hostile Hawke’s Bay tribes. As a matter of fact he was first under fire as a lad of 19 years of age. On Monday last he celebrated the 89th anniversary of his birthday and despite his ripe ago, suffers no disabilities. “I feel as fit as a fiddle,” he told the “Times.” “My worst trouble is a corn on my foot.” Major Garner was born in Staffordshire and came to New Zealand in 1865 when between 17 and 18 years of age-

He landed at Wellington but went almost immediately to Napier where he secured a job as a shipping clerk. The district was in a disturbed condition at the time and young Garner joined up with tho militia. He saw service at Omaranui pah in 1866, in Poverty Bay in 1868-9 and at - Mohaka in 1869. In all he had over 21 years service with the militia, New Zealand Rifles, Scouts, Field Artillery and Permanent Staff. He resided in Hawke’s Bay and Poverty Bay for a period of 42 years and then came to Palmerston North whore he has lived for 29 years. He was one of tho founders of tho Napier Foresters’ Lodge of 27 members and is tho only one remaining alive. Last Saturday ho had the pleasure of proceeding to Napier and participating in the 05th anniversary celebrations.