MAORIS AND THE WAR.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 4, Issue 125, 24 December 1915, Page 3

MAORIS AND THE WAR.

Curious Belief of Natives. The Mercer Conference. Everything is in order for the impirtant conference between the Minister for Defence, the Hon James Allen, and the Maori* to be held to-day (Friday) at Mercer, concerning the dispatch cf additional Mauri reinforcements to the war, is to the advisbility of which there is a diversity of opinion among the natives. Some 300 Maoris are already encamped on the banks of the river at Metcer, and a further 700 are expected to assemble by this afternoon, including representatives from the South Island. It has transpired that some of the older Moaris 'have expressed the opinion mat it would be tu the advantage cf their race if Germany annexed New Zealand, their belief being that the country would be restored to them. The youner men, and by far the most important, are, however, anxious to lend their help in the Cbuae of justice and to help stamp out the Prussian tryanny. Tau Benarc, member for the Northern Maori district, and Dr Pomare are to be present. Kiha 'lhompson, one of the foremost orators amongst the Maoris, expired suddenly at Mercer this week, while writing out a speech he was preparing for to deliver at the Conference.

Notices are posted at the entrance to the grounds that "the pakeba is forbidden to enter." The inevitable dried shark, a favourite dish with the Maoris, is as usual the most important item on the bill-of-fare, and justice is done it by the men, women and children alike. The new hall, which was entirely built by the Maoris, is serving the dual purpose of a rendezvous and a dining hall. It lias been fitted with tables and stools to seat 300 people, and has been lighted with an elaborate acetylene plant Pictures are shown in the hall and a circus bat planted itself in close proximity to the entrance.

Characteristic of their race, the Maoris are to be seen lying about in ttroups caring nought but foi their comfort.

Tbe Maori King's flap;, cf gorgeous design and dimensions, waves proudly over the camp. A Maori haka will greet the Defence Minuter on his arrival at the meeting place.