RETURN OF NATIVE PRISONERS

Patea Mail, 12 October 1880, Page 3

RETURN OF NATIVE PRISONERS

The steamer Hincmoa reached New Plymouth on Friday morning with the natives who were liberated at Dunedin. A large gathering was assembled on the beach to witness flic return of the exiles, amongst whom were about thirty natives. As the boat approached the beach, tbc native women commenced a song of welcome, accompanied by the waving of shawls and scarfs. Contrary to expectation, no answer to those demonstrations was given by the natives in the boat who landed in a very quiet manner, not evincing the least gladness at being permitted once more to return to their homos. After they landed from the boat with their “ swags ” and blankets, they proceeded to the boat-sheds, and were there welcomed alike by Europeans and Maoris. They shook hands with not a few townspeople most. cordially, and appeared well pleased at their kindly reception. Mr Caverhill and other gentlemen came forward and offered words of kindly welcome to the natives. After a few minutes delay, the natives wended their way from the beach to the Native Office, where the formal native reception was accorded them in the shape of a langi. Twenty-four natives landed, among whom were Kawia, Wi Paraonc, Perero Titore, Wi Parata, Honi Puriwhare, and Tamata. Wi King! remained on board the Hincmoa, which sailed for Opunaki. Mr Parris accompanied Wi Kingi, and landed with him at Opunaki.— Herald.