Otorohanga27th December 1902

Dear Mr. Mackay

Replying to your note of the 23rd instant re Maoris who understand the tu-waewae or wardance, I have made inquiries amongst the Natives here, and I do not think that we could produce more than half-adozen, and they are scattered all over the district. Ngatimaniapoto used to be noted for that kind of thing 25 or 30 years ago. That is, when they were living with Tawhiao at Te Kuiti, but since they split away from the King party (in 1883) they have "fallen off" in most of the old Maori tikangas such as dances ngori kais, waiata's etc. I understand that when they were at Rotorua in June last they had to take quite a "back seat", (as a bribe) in the haka, and tuwaewae that were given there for the benefit of the Duke.

The tribes that are at the present time acknowledged to be most proficient are Ngatiporou, Ngatituwharetou (Taupo) and the Arawa. Try what you can do amongst them. Gilbert Mair knows the Arawa well and would I have no doubt assist you. Young Te Heuheu Tukino (at present living at Kihikihi) is the head man of N. Tuwharetoa and might take the matter up if you saw, or wrote to him.

Please excuse a longer letter as I am up to my eyes in work with Maori elections matters - [] [] and D.R. [] claims for payment for services.

Yours sincerely
George T Wilkinson