Return to homeland

Invincible Strangers 62 Chapter 28.2

There was more gloom at Taupiri mountain, 90 kilometres south of Auckland. Tainui, the people of the area, had lost their leader, Te Rata Mahuta. His body was taken up the steep slope for burial on Sunday, 8 October 1933. Among mourners was Harry Holland, the Labour Party leader and long-time friend of the Mau. 

‘The ascent to the graveside on top of a spur was extremely steep and treacherous through the slippery nature of the track, about a quarter of a mile in length,’ a newspaper reported. ‘Mr Holland’s indomitable spirit was shown by his insistence, despite failing health, on accompanying the burial party to the top so that he could be present at the final service.’

He made it to the top but complained of feeling unwell. He leaned against MP William Jordan.

‘Hold me. I feel faint.’

Ambulance men helped him down.

‘He was cheerful, and passed jocular remarks with his bearers.’

Holland was taken to the home of the mayor of nearby Huntly. Offered a cup of tea, he said he wanted to lie down. Thirty minutes later, as he rested on the couch, he said he felt comfortable. Death followed.

Aboard Maui Pomare, Ta’isi heads home with daughters Sina, Olive and Calmar. Photo NZ Herald 17/7/1936