RAGLAN.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 3091, 7 May 1892, Page 2

RAGLAN.

Native Gathering.—One of the largest gatherings of the natives held in this district took place at the Kopua, Raglan, during last week, many hundreds of natives arriving from Aotearou, accompanied by their chiefs—Kawhara, Tumutina, Te Humu, Huhi and Paunga—of that kianga. Lament was made over the loss of the great chief Kereopa, and other departed Maoris. Large quantities ot dried shark piled up on the ground, covered with kits of other eatables, were given away to the visitors, and they in return made presents of tobacco, ike. On Eriday a large number of Europeans were present from Raglan and other parts to witness the haka dance. Whilst food and drink were distributed by the local natives to their visitors, both Europeans and natives, the usual ceremony took place as on such occasions. Tawhiao, the Maori King, who had been expected, was uuable to be present, bub is expected in a few months, when no doubt another feast will take place. Many of the young native men are away grass-sowing. Bathcrsi' Burr.—This troublesome weed has been growing for the last two or three years along the road sides, and around the native cultivation at Te Kopua. Evidently it is spreading, but fortunately not at the present time very fast although the natives evidently don't seem to have any thought of destroying it, which might easily have been done. This is, however, no teason why resident settlers should not endeavour to do so. If a few of them turned out for a day the whole of the plants might be rooted up and afterwards bnrnt. The seed pods are just now ripening and they should be at once burnt before spreading further.

Te Mata.—The annual feast in connection with the district school, took place the other day. Sports and pastimes were enjoyed by the children, and their inward wants supplied by a spread of good things provided by their friends. In-the evening, in the school room, Mr Williams exhibited a number of slides from Lis lantern to the delight and instruction of the youngsters. Cattle.—During the last fortnight several hundred head of cattle have left the Kawhia and surrounding district for the West Coast, and during the last few months 2000 or su head of cattle have been sold from theKnglan and surrounding districts.