MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 6 March 1939, Page 9

MAORI MEMORIES

1 LOYALTY GREATER THAN FRIENDSHIP. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) Sir George Grey’s second term began in September, 1861. Colonel Browne left a few days later. He could not be blamed for the mistakes of his predecessors or for the double rule of British and New Zealand Parliaments, the weakness of which led the Maoris to seek the rule of their own King, a move intended as a direct compliment to the British Constitution. Sir George was hailed by a welcome from every loyal Maori chief in the colony, each of whom condemned the Waikatos who remained silent and aloof. They were not resentful as we supposed; but loyal to the traditions of Britain in their peaceful reign under a Royal Sovereign, nharvelling only at our inconsistent attitude toward our own example of Government. They made no sign of welcome to Sir George, feeling that under the circumstances it would be a sign of submission. They stood only on the defensive and made no demands.

The Governor, too, remained aloof, hoping the Chiefs would do all that was asked of them, if only from their former personal regard. Their loyalty to the Maori King movement was stronger than any friendship, and made the Governor’s wishes hopeless. Tamati Ngapora, who had become Chief at Mangere when Potatau was, crowned, though a Kingite, was always a maker of peace. He waited on the Waikato leaders, told them of the Governor’s friendship, and asked them to send a deputation to him. They were busy planting wheat, and spoke only of their King and the national flag.