Old and New.

As one who has been schooled in much of the mythology and history and philosophy of the ancient race by now-departed wise men of many Maori tribes, I would like to urge the younger generation not to despise what some of them appear inclined to regard as outworn pagan concepts of the Maori. They can assimilate pakeha learning and at the same time try to retain a pride in the past. An example of what I mean comes to mind at the moment, the observances and ritual at the ceremonious opening of a newly-carved meeting-house. It has lately become the custom to import pakeha religious ritual into such occasions, and to discard in whole or in part the excellent and poetical services of the olden race. I have witnessed numerous ceremonies of “taingakawa-whare” in native districts, before the outside element obtruded, and intensely appreciated the eloquent and beautiful ancient prayers for the propitiation of the spirits of the sacred forest, the Wao-Tapu-nui-a-Tane, from whose trees the carved timbers of the house were worked. I have collected several series of these ceremonial services and admired the poetry and symbolism and the wealth of mythological allusion introduced.

With the present revival of woodcarving and other branches of native artcraft, so admirably stimulated and encouraged by the counsel of His Excellency the Governor-General, there could page 63 be a return to the fine old observances embodied in karakia and chant. They are bound up with the true Maori heart and sense of nationality and deserve preference over the new and the unfitting.