Honouring the Past: Māori Battalion
Tēnā tātou Ngāti Meta Whenua whānui.
Introduction
Māori people often have memorials for the Māori Battalion at the marae to honour and remember the bravery and sacrifices of the Māori soldiers who fought for New Zealand during World War II. The Māori Battalion, also known as the 28th (Māori) Battalion, was a unit of the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) that fought in North Africa, Italy, and Greece. The Battalion was made up of Māori and Pacific Island volunteers who were eager to defend their country and their people.
The Māori Battalion was a source of pride for the us as it showed the world that we’re capable of achieving great things and contributing to the war effort. The Battalion was known for its courage and determination, and its members were awarded many decorations for their bravery.
A German officer, Generalleutnant Friedrich-Wilhelm Müller, is reputed to have called the Māori Battalion "the most terrifying opponent" during the Battle of Crete in World War II. Müller was known as the "Butcher of Crete" due to his harsh reprisals against the local population during the German occupation of the island.
The Māori Battalion was highly respected for its fierce and effective fighting during the campaign, and it earned a formidable reputation among Axis forces.
The memorials at the marae are a way for Māori to pay tribute to the Māori Battalion and to remember the sacrifices made by its members. They are often attended by family members of the fallen soldiers, as well as community leaders and members of the public. The memorials often include speeches, songs, and karakia (prayers) to honour the memory of the Māori Battalion and its members. The memorials are an important part of Māori culture and a way to keep the memory of the Māori Battalion alive.
The Māori Battalion is an important part of Māori history and culture. During World War II, the Māori Battalion was made up of Māori soldiers who fought for New Zealand. Many Māori people are proud of the role that their ancestors played in the war and the sacrifices they made.
Having a memorial for the Māori Battalion at the marae is a way for Māori people to honour and remember their ancestors who fought in the war. It is also a way for the community to come together and pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The marae is a sacred space for Māori people, and it is a fitting place to have a memorial for the Māori Battalion. The memorial at the marae serves as a reminder of the important role that Māori people played in New Zealand's history and the sacrifices they made for their country.
We hope this guide has enriched your understanding, enabling you to partake in these marae spaces with respect and appreciation. May your experience at the Metawhenua be enlightening and memorable, fostering a deeper appreciation and connection to Māori culture and traditions.
If you recognise the transformative power of this technology and wish to explore further, we warmly invite you to join the Ngāti Meta Whenua whānau and stay connected with us.
Noho ora mai,
Metawhenua.
