Page:Overland Journey of the Governor of New Zealand.djvu/29

Rh At the conclusion of his Excellency's speech, which was received with cheers by the natives assembled, the natives danced hakas and other Maori dances.

Afterwards his Excellency visited the falls of the Waikato, situated amidst fine scenery, about four miles from the point at which the river issues from the northern end of the lake. There are fine rapids above and below the falls; which resemble in height and volume of water those of the Rhine at Schaffhausen. After visiting the falls the party bathed in one of the natural hot baths in the neighbourhood, where a cascade of tepid water falls into a rocky basin.

April 13.—The Governor and suite, leaving with regret the shores of the great lake, or sea ("moana," not "roto," as the natives call it) of Taupo, and, after four hours' easy riding over fern-clad hills for about 25 miles, reached Orakei-Korako, a native kainga on the left bank of the Waikato, belonging to the clan of the Ngatiraukawa. Here the Governor was welcomed by the influential chief Hori Ngawhare, who, though in extreme old age and infirmity, had travelled more than 50 miles to meet his Excellency. This portion of the Ngatiraukawa had been in former years engaged in the rebellion. Several chiefs, however, had gone to meet the Governor at Taupo, to invite him to their country; and he was received by the assembled clan with the most hearty respect. The substance of the speeches delivered at Orakei-Korako is as follows:—


 * Come, O Governor, come and see us, your people. You are the father of the people. (Song of welcome.) Salutations to you,