MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 June 1939, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

THIRD FALL OF THE FLAGSTAFF. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) At the pending third attack upon the flagpole last mentioned, the whole of the tribes were in a state of panic as to their oranga mua (future life). Every man, woman, and child of seven upward in silent prayer asking their many gods, “Ahea Ka wera aku ahi ka roa” (how long will the sacred fires continue to burn on our land?) Strangely reminiscent of the Bible mystery and its terror of "Everlasting Fire,” this literal translation "Ahi ka roa” was the most sacred and precious symbol and the inviolable title to their beloved land. It was to them the very essence of "Everlasting Life,” in which there was no mental or physical pain. What a happy contrast to our past theology. Heke and Kawiti, having formed their plan of a dual attack, decided to subject it to the test of Niu (Divination) by throwing little darts of canes. In this the priests alone took part. They were particularly careful to see that it coincided with the wishes of the Hapu (tribes). Heke’s cane went straight as a dart—that of the intruders and their soldiers, like the one for the safety of the flag pole, flew aside. In the black darkness Hoke and his army lay hidden at the approach to the flagstair, that hateful symbol of Maori defeat. Kawiti’s armed host lay hidden in the hollow directly on the line of approach to the town. Before dawn. Kawiti’s army of young men rushed .the town of Korora reka, each one intent upon the honour of getting the Mataika (the first man killed). Thus the attention of the flagpole guards was diverted to the vital question of saving their women and children. Down crashed the great flagstaff, an omen of success, endowing the Maori hosts with demoniacal power. Pumuka secured the Mataika Pakeha. but in turn he was the fti’st Maori killed, and honours for the moment were Rite (evefi).