MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 May 1939, Page 3

MAORI MEMORIES

(Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) SURPRISE MEETING. Originally the name Pa meant a fortified village, though now it is applied to each little Maori settlement in which every sign of defence or the need for it has long since disappeared. A graphic description of one such occasion is given by an Englishman who came to the Bay of Islands with the very first pioneers, and were then the most welcome guests of every tribe. Each Hapu (tribe) then received another with the utmost Tupato (caution) as Manuhiri (welcome guests) or potential Hoa riri (enemies).

On hearing of an approaching Ope (company), they use every precaution against Reremai (an attack). The coming Ope does not disclose its Mea (purpose) until the elaborate mutual Tangi (salutations) are given. The idea of this peculiar custom seems to be that they may each enjoy a surprise, pleasant or otherwise. The means by which the mysterious Karere (messenger) gains or conveys information is not disclosed, but reliable news reached the Pa that a party of 1000 were ten days away. Then all was excitement inside and out. Messengers ran like madmen to the outskirts for ten miles to recall fishermen and bird hunters, women and children hurriedly gathering food and fuel to entertain guests or to provide against attack. Three lines of fences and ditches surrounded the raupo or toitoi houses. A hundred men outside and as many inside each line on temporary platforms lashing the palings together ten feet above the ground with Torotoro (tough vines). This work went on night and day. From dusk to dawn the sky reflected the lighting system of bonfires tended by the women. Then there were pigs squealing. dogs barking, women and children crying with excitement at the unknown result of the coming Tutaki Kete (surprise meeting).