Huntly

Te Ao Hou, June 1966, Page 47

Huntly The Dominion President, Mrs Sage, was also present at the Tainui Regional Council's annual conference, which was held in Huntly last March. Delegates from as far as Tauranga, Paeroa and Pokeno joined those from surrounding districts on the marae, where they were welcomed by centenarian Mr Hori Paki. Mrs E. Paki presided. The conference was opened by Mrs Carter wife of the M.P. for Raglan, Mr D. J. Carter, who later spoke at the ceremony. He paid tribute to the great part Maori women were playing in retaining the traditions of their race as well as assisting in the progress of the Maori people. Particular interest was shown at the conference in the Report of the Committee of Inquiry into Laws Affecting Maori Land and Powers of the Maori Land Court, especially in the clause relating to the rights of inheritance. This clause recommends that the law on Maori inheritance be brought into line with European law. As it now stands the Maori widow has no right of inheritance and can be left destitute if her husband dies without leaving a will. The child inherits everything and theoretically the widow can then be turned out of her home. Mrs S. Murray, area representative, spoke of her work. She reported visits to Wellington and to outlying branches and the formation of new branches in Tuakau, Pokeno, and Mercer. She urged members to a greater understanding of the aims and objectives of the league and its constitution. The conference congratulated the regional president, Mrs Paki, on her appointment as a Justice of the Peace.