Birthday, book, Treaty attract

Nauatu Fenton-Cribb (left), Huia Anne Maeke, Oma Heitia, Erena Hill and Peter Thorwite from the UK were among the many people to come from near and far to Parewahawaha Marae. Photo/Stuart Munro

Oma Heitia's 80th birthday last Sunday managed to rake in family and friends from Australia and the UK, although Treaty talks and a book launch were also part of the attraction.

About 200 people gathered at Parewahawaha Marae in Bulls to discuss a Treaty claim for land stretching from Ohakea to Taihape, as well as celebrate the launch of Mrs Heitia's daughter's book Extinguishing Titles, about New Zealand land sales.

"It took her three years to find a publisher," said Mrs Heitia's sister, Christina McLeary, who said the book was being published in the US but not in New Zealand.

Dr Stella Coram, the author, had previously spent time in Australia doing research with Aboriginal people.

The Treaty claim was scheduled for a hearing on May 2 at the Tokorangi Marae.

"It's a large amount of land owned by our great, great, great grandfather," said Ms McLeary.

"He did have control of the land from Sanson up to Taihape. It follows the Rangitikei River. It's a claim which includes Ohakea. We don't think we'll get very much for it."

The birthday was a success. "We had a right royal feast."

Ms McLeary said Mrs Heitia had had eight children, but only six were still alive, and was passionate about training young Maori to become leaders.

"She's very smart, she's very warm. I don't want to use the word 'motherly' but she's very sociable."