RAGLAN.

Waikato Times, Volume X, Issue 712, 9 January 1877, Page 3

RAGLAN.

Had we the telegraph here, you would have heard of our doings of Christmas week long btLre now, but as we ate not permitted to iudulge m that luxury, you must be satisfied to receive it only now m the way, which will show you that, although Raglan is only about forty miles from your office, yet it is a long way off.

On Boxing Day, a large gathering of natives took place at Aotea, who came to participate m a feast, given by the friendly natives with the assistance of a little £. s. d. from their European neighbours. The feast was on the tea meeting piinciple, every one who entered the boolb bad to deposit a shifting m the plate, and there was no getting on the soft side of the door keeper. The sum collected is to be added to that gathered m the same way last year, which was raised to purchase agricultural imjliments with. Others would not indulge m a sailings worth, reserving their cash for the horse races. After these who were inclined, had received a return for their inorey, uearly every one proceedel to the course, where three or four tolerably well contested laces took place. After these events te:mhiated, the fragments of the • cakes that remained were given away gratis to thff visitors. There were about' three bunded natives present, principally Hauhaus, but notwithstanding this not the slightest disa(jreeab)enes3 took

place throughout the gatherirg. Tawhiao's three sons were present, as were many chiefs who have scarcely been heard of for the last ten years, much less seen. These Kawhia people have been much more eoeinble since the visit of the Luna to that harbour, which seems to have broken the ice. About sunset a general exodus took place. There ware several

European settlers present. New Years Day is th xt upon which our hamlet

throws aside its everyday appearance, the inhabitants going m for exerci&ing their biceps on the water, on four legs and on two.

Ihere were two boat races, one sailing and one rowing, also a canoe race during \he forenoon. In the afternoon those who wished to try the speed of their high mettled racers had an opportunity of doing so. After the horseracing terminated., a return was made for the township, and the foot races wliioh consisted of the usual programme, were gone through; Tbe day's proceedings concluded with out an application being made to the local authorities by any one for a few days'

lodging m tbe woeden jug to enable them to get rid of Father Christmas and his utteiklant nightmares.— Own Correspond but.