MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 31 August 1938, Page 3

MAORI MEMORIES

POTATAU’S PURPLE ROBE. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) /In 1854 Tamihana, a Maori Chief, who was well known as a professing rather than a consistent Christian, sold a portion of his land for some trifling luxuries. “The Anti-Land Selling League” at Poverty Bay at once bought it back for £4OO and roundly condemned the original seller. In 1856 the League decided upon a wide circle of which Hauraki, Waikato', Kawhia, Mokau, Wanganui, Rangitikei, and Titiokura should form the circumference, and Tongariro, the blazing torch of independence, the precise centre. Within that sacred circle all sales were forbidden under the sacred law of Tapu which in ancient Maori poetic lore is thus defined: — “By ceremonial usage I Become a sacred entity, A thing forbidden, that the eye Alone may dwell upon and see.” In 1857 their second session, attended by 2000 members decided that the British flag given by King William IV should be inscribed “Potatau, King of New Zealand.” This old man Potautau te Wherowhero was a British pensioner, and reluctantly accepted the purple robe. He was hailed as King of the Maoris. Fifty-seven pounds was presented to him to uphold his dignity, and £lOO to buy a printing press. The Governor became alarmed and had an embankment erected round his residence. The militia was enrolled and the 58th Regiment, about to sail for England, was held back. The Governor was urged to seize the rebel king, but the Ngapuhi tribe and settlers decided that neglect was the only weapon. Governor Browne wisely accepted their advice, paddled up the Waikato and met the King of the Maoris in friendly conference.