THE MAORI KING

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 3, Issue 699, 27 November 1933, Page 5

THE MAORI KING

(Special to "Post.")

CORONATION CELEBRATIONS IN PROGRESS AT WAAHI THOUSANDS PRESENT

Hamilton, Saturday Tbe ceremony in connection with the conclusion of the reign of King Te Rata Mahuta, commenced at Waahi Pa on Friday. Officially the proceedings marked the conclusion of the reign of Te Rata though his death occurred last month, when his son was crowned King. However, his regime proper did not commence until yesterday. Visiting natives numbered several thousands, and while these received customary chantings of welcome tribal elders assembled to discuss the government of the King movement. Many prominent leaders, including Mr. Taite Te Tomo, M.P., for Western Maori, Tarapipi, of Morrinsville, a descendant of Wiremu Tamihana, the "Kingmaker," Hone Te Heu Heu and Tu Tawhiao, the Ngati-Ruanui and Rima Wakarua of the Nga-Rauru were present. Such delicacies as eels and potatoes formed the staple fare for the mid-day meal, the dining hall being filled to capacity. During the afternoon a number oi speeches were made, tbe elder Maoris being prominent. However, youth had its say and was principally responsible for the entertainment of visitors by hakas, dances and songs. The assembly will continue at Waahi Pa for several days.