MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 22 April 1939, Page 4

MAORI MEMORIES

REWI DEFIES THE KING. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) An officer of the Native Department went at the risk of his life with a letter to King Matutaera asking whether in his opinion the killing of the soldiers at Oakura was an act of war or murder? After being searched for concealed weapons he reached the capital, but of course a personal interview was not permitted to a subordinate officer of state. Rewi and his officers declared it was a righteous renewal of a war for justice. The others reserved their opinions until they had heard both sides, as they had not implicit faith in government statesments. There are several words in Maori to express, an act of killing. ’ It was necessary to consider whether Tupato (warning) or Taki (challenge) had been given, or if there was a just ground of attack. ' A meeting of 300 was held to consider what part the Waikato Maoris should take in this Taranaki war. Wi Tamihana condemned Rewi as the cause of this unjust act of murder which led to Pakanga (war), and declared that his tribe would, take no part in the fight—Rewi jumped to his feet, grimaced as only a Maori can and thrust his 'red tongue below his chin and when asked what it meant, he said “We go right into the mouth of the governor’s cannon; I care nothing for the Maori King. I have anointed my sword and my spear to be kings over me.” Yet the Manaiapoto though bent on war did not go to Taranaki. They planned to raid our villages of Drury, Mauku, Papakura, and even the town of Auckland. ! 'i