MAORI MEMORIES.

Wairarapa Times-Age, 11 May 1938, Page 9

MAORI MEMORIES.

MAORI TRAVELLERS. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age”) In 1805 Mr Savage, a British surgeon, introduced the first New Zealand savage to British society as an ariki (high chief), though he was but a tau rekareka (a captive slave), who claimed equality of rank with the other New Zealand "Savage” who visited the young King and Queen in 1937. The name of the Maori visitor was Mohanga (for work). He wondered how St. Paul built such a huge cathedral, and how water could be made to move in pipes, but more than all, why the ariki of these manotini (countless thousands), George the Third, should be a frail old man instead of a vigorous fighting warrior. Mohanga returned to Maoriland laden with carpenters’ tools, and was sorry he had not asked for guns. In 1807, Matora Moemoea (the distant dreamer), true to his name, realised his desire to hongi (rub noses) with the Royal Family. In London he caught cold, which resulted in his death shortly after his return. Ruatara (the lizard) was the most intelligent and observant Maori traveller of his time. In 1805 he shipped on board a whaler and became an expert harpooner. After many adventures he reached London in 1809. He returned to Sydney with the Rev Samuel Marsden, and spent a year learning modern agriculture. After a year on Norfolk Island he returned to New Zealand. In 1814 he and Hongi went again to Sydney. They returned to New Zealand, when, a few days after arival, Ruatara died suddenly. He was the first Maori who grew wheat. He also took an active part in bringing simple Christian principles and the art of reading and writing among the Maoris. Maori travellers spread abroad and created a good impression. They also taught their people the advantage of keeping on good terms with Britishers.