MRS G. P. DONNELLY.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIV, Issue 9465, 7 June 1909, Page 4

MRS G. P. DONNELLY.

Per Press Association. Hastings, June 7. The death took place at midnight of Mrs G. P. Donnelly. Deceased, whose native name was Airiui Baeanria, has been an important figure in European and Maori affairs for the last twenty-five years. She was closely allied by blood with leading ohefs of the Ngati and Kahnngnni, including Tiaktaii, Temoananui, Tareha, Renata Kawepo and others, which gave her a “mana” prestige and standing unique in Maori history. She was noted for lavish hospitality, and her able and determined defence of her people’s rights Her appearance in Native Land Courts was a revelation of knowledge and advocacy. She was a prominent figure on all occasions in the entertainment of illustrious European visitors, among the most notable being the Duke and Duchess of York, who, with the King and Queen, rechrocated her hospitality most royally when Mrs Donnelly, a few years ago, visited England. Her loss will ba felt by both races. She was the essence of charity. Her own people will lose a great champion and the community at large one of the few Rangatlra links binding us with the Maori past and early history In Hawke’s Bay.