Maori Tennis Championships

The New Zealand Maori Tennis Championships were held in Gisborne from January 8 to 11. There were some tough games among competitors. A notable feature of the championships was the large attendance attracted to the courts each day. They gave much support to all the players.

Manutuke personality Dee Tureia slams down a serve in the first of her games.

Senior men's title was taken by Barry Smith of Auckland.

An unexpected finish to the men's title was provided when Joe Malcolm withdrew in the fifth set after two games, and conceded the match to Smith.

Geo. Marsden, president P.B.M.L.T.A., whose organisation provided smooth running of the fixture, and Ted Maurice, Rotorua, president N.Z.M.L.T.A.

Norma McKenzie playing in the under 19 doubles.

Dell Buscke kicks up the dust and neatly returns the ball from the corner of the court in the under 19 doubles.

Present at the opening of the tennis were Mr P. Rewiti, M.P.for Eastern Maori, Mrs Barker, Mrs Esme Tombleson, M.P., the Mayor, Mr H. H. Barker, and Maori elder Mr H. Maynard.

Players from Queen Victoria School were Ramona Heke, Katarina Connelly, Janice Tumata, Charis Rata and Waina Waititi. Janice and Waina toured Australia as juniors a couple of seasons ago.