MAORI MEMO

Wairarapa Times-Age, 11 July 1940, Page 2

MAORI MEMO

AN ABSURD INTERI (Recorded by J.H.S., of Palmerston North, for the “Times-Age.”) In Iho early days the constitution of New Zealand and the United States with regard to the occupation of land was almost identical. In both countries the immigrants were outnumbered by the original owners and occupiers of the soil, both of whom after “selling" their lands realised that it was really they who had been “sold.”

Judge Chapman said in 1853 that the “upper” class here boasted that no less than 37 of them were authors of books or pamphlets. From whatever class our pioneers came, they soon began to ignore hereditary rights. Many of them said in subdued tones that men of equality in mind and muscle were alike useful to the community. The idea of classifying the people by heredity, money, religion, or the right to idleness then became unknown. They were, men and women alike, gifted with energy. The idle, the sickly, and the timid ones would not risk the dangers, and would not risk the journey. All were busy getting a home, no one spending money.

On May 24, 1853, Queen Victoria’s anniversary, Colonel Wynyard opened our first Parliament. Mr Clifford, of Wellington, was elected Speaker. Gibbon Wakefield attempted to establish a form like that of England from 169 G, and Canada since 1840; but this was not provided for under the constitution. Squabbles over rules and regulations led to serious delays regarding really important issues. Mr Mackay, of Nelson, threw on the table an unread Gazette notice proroguing the Assembly, and assuming that this meant the House was not now in session, refused to take off his hat. Mr Sewell punched Mr Mackay’s ribs, and the strangers in the gallery were about to come to the rescue when his Excellency read the proclamation proroguing Parliament.