ALEXANDRA.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXIX, Issue 3192, 8 December 1892, Page 2

ALEXANDRA.

Death op Taonui. — The well - known Ngatimaniopoto chief Taonui died somewhat suddenly at Te Kuiti on Friday la'fc. There are a large number of natives assembled there to hold the usual tangi—estimated at between 700 and 800—and more are continually arriving. The deceased chief has enjoyed the confidence of the Europeans for a number of yeais, and was universally respected for his invariably straightforward conduct. Amongst his own people he was always to be found on the side of progress, and a friend to the Government, from whom he was of late years in receipt of a pension. He was one of the last of the old high-caste Rangatiras remaining amongst his tribe. Rewi and Wahanui, of this class, are still alive, but the former is very infirm. The funeral will probably take place to-morrow (Tuesday), and should do so, but there is a great difference of opinion amongst his friends on the subject, as many are in favour of deferring it until more distant friends arrive. Taonui leaves no children, but a brother (Te Naunau), a widow, and four nephews (J. Taonui, Hetet, Ngatai and H. Hetet) survive him. A larr,e quantity of provisions are being provided to feed the numerous mourners assembled and yet to arrive. Death is also busy in the neighbourhood, as no less than three other tangis are going on in the district over departed natives.

Lost Treasure.—The gold watch, lost bv Mr Gavin Gilford, and advertised for in Thk Waikato Times, and which was a valuable family heirloom, was found by a young lad at Te Rore, named Bolton. The watch was joiner when picked up, and although Mr Gittord was kept in anxiety for some time, now that the tickor is once more in his possession, he is happy.

ChriStmastide. — The Alexandra children's usual Christinas tree and jollification will take pl;ice on the 29th inst. Miss Allan has the youngster* in training, so that no apprehension exists, but all who attend will have as capital an evening's entertainment as of yore.