HAKA FOR DUTCH

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 March 1941, Page 3

HAKA FOR DUTCH

MAORI SOLDIERS IN LONDON. DISCOVERY OF NEW ZEALAND. Dutchmen in England saw Maoris perform a haka when the 298th anniversary of the discovery of New Zealand by Abel Tasman was celebrated at the New Zealand Forces Club. This is mentioned by Lieutenant-Colonel the Hon. F. Waite, D. 5.0.. M.L.C.. overseas commissioner for the National Patriotic Fund Board, in his latest report to the board. Representative Dutchmen were invited to the function. The High Commissioner for New Zealand <Mr. W. J. Jordan) .and Lord Cramnorne welcomed his Royal Highness Prince Bernhard. of the Netherlands, and other distinguished representative Dutch statesmen, sailors and soldiers. "A parly of Maori soldiers were present i.o renew the earliest contacts that were made between European and Maori," slates Colonel Waite in his report. “The function was most successful.” A song by the Maoris stimulated the Dutch officers and men to sing with great effect one of their own. and this drew forth a couple of hakas from the Maoris which were received with great enthusiasm. The Royal visitor was presented with a set of the latest New Zealand stamps, prepared by Colonel Waite. Copies of "England and the Maori Wars" were also presented to the Prince and other distinguished guests. The New Zealand Forces Club, which is supported financially by the National Patriotic Fund Board, has become, according to Colonel Waite, an important meeting ground for men from al! parts of the Empire and Allied nations. A club for the New Zealand forces has also been established in Cairo, and the rent from this is paid by the board from the National Fund.