SPIRIT OF ARAWAS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23916, 18 September 1939, Page 11

SPIRIT OF ARAWAS

OFFER OF SERVICE OVERSEAS WHERE DANGER IS GREATEST A protest against the action of a meeting of Whangarei and Northland Maoris in carrying a resolution opposing conscription, and asking that the Maoris battalion be reserved for home defence only, was expressed unanimously at a large meeting of Arawa Maoris held last Thursday night. On the same evening a parade of over 30 Maoris was held, and elementary drill instruction was given by returned soldier officers. The meeting carried a resolution stating that so far as the Arawas were concerned they made an unconditional offer of man and womanpower wherever the greatest danger threatened, and that in the opinion of the meeting that danger point was “not in New Zealand.” but beyond the shores of the great ocean Kiwa. the sacred oathway of our ancestors in the misty past, and later of their descendants in their journey to the heights of Gallipoli and the plains of Flanders, where the spirit of their comrades who never returned now beckons them to hurry.” The resolution concluded: “Let others hesitate in this, our extreme hour of peril and need, but the spirit of the Arawa and associate tribes throughout Aotearoa flames at the deeds of wanton aggression, and demands that they again be allowed to cross the seas to stand shoulder to shoulder with their white brothers, sharing with them equality of sacrifice in defending the same ideals thev fought for 25 years ago.” The text of the resolution has been sent to the Acting-Prime Minister. 'Mr P. Fraser.

The best Is cheapest in the long run —order Kiaitangata Coal.—Advt. Take advantage of our enormous coverage value —use the Times Small Advertisement Columns.