MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 10 March 1941, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

IN WAR THEY WIN. (Recorded by of Palmerston North, for the “Times-Age.”J In bush warfare we are no match lor these resourceful savages. In 1865 we had 17,000 regular troops and militia under arms on the battle areas, yet tne officers feared ultimate defeat from these scattered tribes numbering, in men, women and children, 30,000. Both sides were brave and intelligent, but the Maori was of quicker movement, able to live on less food, had far less transport. They dug their fernroot, gathered berries, and netted birds and fish. They were aided by their women who led the charge when needed, and formed the commisariat. We moved on military coastal roads, while they paced the ways from side to side in the bush with speed and secrecy. They had arms and stole ammunition. Blockade was useless where they lived on little, all of which was of nature’s bounty. When we burnt their Pa. they ceased to build and slept on leaves or fern. We brought cannons, but they traversed Hie bush and hills where we could not follow. It touched our pride to admit that, man for man. they were our superiors in their own surroundings. All nations fond of‘horses are said to flourish. The Maoris love horses, and ride well. Writers tell us that all races who favour the sea succeed. The Maoris had scores of ships, and served as sailors when they got a chance. As deep sea fishers they have no equal. Their fondness for the game of draughts show they are skilled mathematicians. They are shrewd men. thrifty, brave, and friendly—yet they die. They say of us —"Can you stay the surf which beats on the shore?” And of themselves “We are gone like the Moa.”