MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 2 September 1939, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

MAORI ROADS. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) Sir George Grey's knowledge of the Maori language gave him a greater insight of their peculiar characteristics than that of any living European of his time. Ho used it for the good of his countrymen as well as for that of his Maori subjects. Every tribe, friendly or enemy, respected his sincerity. An instance of his tact was made apparent at Otaki in those early years when the want of roads was a serious bar to progress and settlement. One chief whose influence was recognised far and wide resisted every effort to open up the Native lands, well knowing that land speculators would acquire their heritage for a trifle and leave them in poverty, dependent upon charity. Sir George knew that if they could only be kept free from the degrading influence of liquor, the effect of loading would really treble the productivity of their lands. In an important conference the ruling Chief granted may concessions to the Governor, except the most important, that of making a main highway through the tribal land. There being no other available route, Sir George used his ready wit to attain the desired end. In token .of the Governor’s approval of the many concessions already granted, Sir George presented the Maori Chief with his own antiquated but handsomely equipped double buggy, together with a pair of quiet grey horses and silver mounted harness. Consent to the construction of the road followed immediately! Without it the coveted token of Royalty could not be displayed.