MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 7 December 1940, Page 11

MAORI MEMORIES

THE FIRST TECHNICAL SCHOOL. (Recorded by J.H.S., or Palmerston North, for the “Times-Age.”) Differences of creed and mere techmcahties are the enemies of mankind. J h e controversy about religion divided -he Maoris of Waikato at a critical period The subjects of the proposed liver steamer and school were freely discussed. One section tried to persuade the King and his followers to J’.? 1 ?*? the safety of the hills. The Kimkihi Maoris persisted in supplying timber for the school. Letters were sent out by the Taupo Runanga (Council) urging all rnaoris to change their creed from English to Roman, and thus prevent attendance at the proposed Anglican school. The Maori King, on I being asked if he had changed his religion, said: “I approve of all religions in the world.” The newspaper said this was the right attitude for a ruler who had subjects of various creeds.

The Government school was duly established on ideal lines, the pupils having no less than five hours a day at mechanical trades designed to fit them to earn a living. Reading, writing and arithmetic were a diversions only. Every man and boy in the school was clothed, fed and lodged there. The one condition of this school was Implicit obedience to the Whaka ako (teacher). The demand for profitable employment of these practical pupils exceeded the available number. Rewi and Tamihana, former opponents, now visited and appreciated the work of the scholars. Tamihana confirmed his approval by ordering the novelty of a pair of trousers, paying £1 in advance. Ti Oriori intercepted the parcel, and was so charmed with their fit that he told Tamihana that “he would agree to accept them as a present.”