Interview with Riria Utiku

Riria Utiku was born in Wellington ca 1916. Talks about leaving school at age 13 without English proficiency, and needing a permit to work in a millinery warehouse named Ross and Glendinnings. Describes how Kingi Tahiwi became choirmaster in Wiki Bennett's church singing group, and the formation of Ngati Poneke. Talks about early members who worked at Department of Maori Affairs, Glen and Bill Royal and distinguishes between the Club and the Association. Mentions that marriage prevented her continued involvement in the club, and talks about her work in Lady Pomare's Welfare Committee, visiting the sick in hospital. Mentions the impact of Lady Pomare on the club's status, other Maori group's reaction to its perceived privileged treatment, and proximity to policitians such as Mr Fraser, Mr Jones and Mr Mason. Mentions her mother's early involvement and Henry Tahiwi. Mentions the club's singers: Witarina Harris, Katie Hakaria, Renal Tahiwi, May Potiki, and the styles of songs used. Talks about the long poi dance with coloured lights performed by Bugsy Wallace, Karl Karapa and Guide Bubbles. Talks about costumes, mentioning that puipui were borrowed from the National Museum.

Talks about concerts to American servicemen during World War II. Talks about rehearsal nights at the Club, and songs performed. Talks about Kingi Tawihi and his strictness, and Lady Pomare as the peacemaker, both knowing about Pakeha society and English ways such as table manners. Mentions Mrs Hakata, Mr and Mrs Potiki, Rex Casey. Mentions Pakeha involvement, including Harry Cornwall, Mr Rogers, Jock McEwen, Edith Wilky Training College, Bet McGregor, Lilly Kettlewood (who loaned her studio to the Club), Val Vercoe (a leader for many years), Marie Head, and pianist Mrs Smith. Talks about American Embassy staff and their daughters coming to the Club and making recordings of the concerts. Recalls the Club's sporting activities. Recalls singing Hawaiian rather than Maori songs in the early years. Mentions various performances, including a broadcast for Prime Minister Savage's return from the Coronation. Talks about some of her photos of the Club.

Interviewer(s) - Patricia Grace

Interviewer(s) - Jonathon Dennis

Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-10540

Quantity: 1 C90 cassette(s). 1.30 Hours and minutes Duration.

Finding Aids: Abstract Available - transcript(s) available OHA-3657; MSDL-0153 (files Utiku.doc, Utiku2.doc).

Search dates: 1937 - 1949

Alternative form available: Listening copy OHLC-006724