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there was anything I could do to help her expand
dinner for an unexpected guest.
Aroha was about my age, of Maori heritage with
bright, friendly eyes. She greeted me with the Maori
greeting “Kia Ora” and with that first greeting, a
cherished friendship began. She was very kind and
explained that she worked for the Professor a few days
a week.

She also went to school and had private studies with
her Maori Grandmother, who lived on the property
adjacent to the Professor’s making it very convenient for
her busy schedule.
During dinner the Professor explained that his
grandparents had acquired the land from the local
Maori tribe called Rangitane O Manawatu.

Manawatu is also the name of the state or province
as they say in New Zealand. He wasn’t quite sure
about all the details, but his father had taken care of it
until he died and now it was his.
He recently returned from England following a very
successful teaching career at a London University. He
was somewhat reluctant to return, but did have
colleagues and connections locally.

The Professor decided not to charge me for the
overnight stay but that my penance would be to help

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