DEATH OF MAORI KING

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 9, Issue 533, 21 May 1920, Page 2

DEATH OF MAORI KING

MR. HENRY KAIHAU. The death occurred yesterday afternoon of the well-known Maori chief, Mi*. Henry Kaihau, due to heart failure supervening an attack of pneumonia. He was aged 65. Deecased was a son of the late Mr. Kaihau, an influential chief of the Waikato tribe. He was born in 1855, and educated at the late Archdeacon Maunsell's school on the Mission Sta-' tion, Waikato. For many years he was the leading spirit in all native Parliamentary meetings, being a fluent speaker, clever in debate, and of a commanding personality. In 1896 he was elected to Parliament, and went to Wellington, representing the Western Maori district. He was re-elected in 1899, and retained his seat until a few years ago. He, with Mrs Kaihau and daughters, vis? ited Rotonua on the occasion of the, recent visit of the Prince of Wales; and was presented to His Royal Highness. He later attended the festivities at Wellington. Returning home, he contracted pneumonia, and then heart failure.

No doubt a large tangi will be held, as deceased was a well-known personality. Mrs Kaihau is a daughter of the late Mr. Wm. Flavell, of Waipipi, and has several sons and daughters.