MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 27 July 1939, Page 5

MAORI MEMORIES

LAWLESS IMPRISONMENT.

(Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”)

In 1879-80 Te Whiti’s “peaceful occarried out near the homes of many cupation” of the confiscated land was settlers who had purchased or leased portions from the Government. Te Whiti had been given the title of “Prophet” by his followers, and under it had acquired universal Mana (influence) among his thousands of followers. His plan was that of non-resist-ance in all circumstances.

His “declaration” was to plough the land and thus figuratively display its “Puku” (secrets) concerning the disputed title. The word Puku„has several meanings, among them being “the stomach, and even an authority on the language like Sir John Gorst, counsel for the defence in the case of Bryce versus Rusden, was misled so far as to construe it thus: “Plough up the belly of the Government.” In 1881 the Government arrested Te Whiti and 180 of his followers. Only 40 could be convicted of forcible entrance, and were sentenced to twelve months’ imprisonment. The other 140 could not be convicted, and were kept in prison for more than a year without trial or legal reason.

During that period Parliament was dissolved, and Sir John Hall, John Bryce and others assumed the reins of government. Instead of giving these unoffending Maori loyalists the benefit or the law to which they -were entitled, they immediately passed an Act of Parliament authorising the government tc keep these in prison without trial! They, however, appointed Sir William Fox and Sir Francis Bell. .two. men 01 excellent character, to investigate the grievances of these West Coast Maoris, “excepting one thing,” the right to investigate the title to the disputed land! That vital question has never yet been made the subject of a decision in any Court of Justice.