MAORI MEMORIES
MAORI STORIES. (Recorded by J.H.S., of Palmerston North, for the “Times-Age.”) Stories of the supernatural powers of certain Maori Tohunga and Ariki (Priests and High Priests) are mere figments of the imagination from superstitious people, or obvious inventions from practised writers of fiction (experienced liars) who seek fame or fortune by such foolish deceptions. Most of these stories giving magic powers to Maori humbugs, who camouflage their demonstrations with obvious tricks, are enlarged by repetition. That oft told tale of Te Heu Hcu converting a dead leaf of whanaki (cabbage tree) into a fresh green one by throwing it in the air and thus amazing Bishop Selwyn is of course posthumous. Other ridiculous lies about the severed arm or leg of an enemy showing signs of life are a waste of energy and paper. Nothing delighted these mischievous people move than to “take a rise" out of a newcomer, and subsequently recite it to their family and guests amid laughter.
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Wairarapa Times-Age, 27 September 1940, Page 2
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162MAORI MEMORIES Wairarapa Times-Age, 27 September 1940, Page 2
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