MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 27 February 1939, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

A MAORI WAR COUNCIL. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) When war in Taranaki over the Waitara land was threatening, 60 young warriors marched through to Waikato to give allegiance to King Potatau. While there, news of the outbreak of war at Taranaki came to hand. Wi Tako, a southern chief, was invited to visit the scene and report. His opinion was that the Maori King's influence (Mana), was. not concerned, and that Wiremu Kingi alone was responsible. Wiremu Kingi, who had always held aloof from the King movement, wrote asking to join the league. Wiremu Tamihana was the first speaker at the great Hui to decide whether they should join the war. His the Maori, was logical and convincing. In effect it was for peace. “Let us first see our way, then only may we join him. If the Governor blames the King movement I see through it. If he says it is the land I see through that also. We must keep our land. If the Governor takes it, then it may mean war. Let us seek out the truth then fight to the death in a righteous cause. The whole question is—Did the Governor buy the land before or after King Potatau’s Mana was proclaimed.” Mr McLean spoke convincingly on behalf of the Government claim. Te Heu Heu of Taupo broke up the meeting when he stood up saying “It is night.” The Maoris seldom pass definite resolutions at meetings; but one result of this Hui was that Rewi Manaiapoto took a strong band of warriors to help their native allies in Taranaki. Then it became the fashion of Waikato Maori sports to spend ah annual holiday in Taranaki “Shooting Pakehas.”