Mr Collinge has been concerned to enhance and to represent New Zealand as a whole. In this respect, he has shown special concern in including Maori in all aspects of his endeavours:
(a)United Kingdom: In the UK, many guests commented on the haka and farewell by NgatiRanana in his honour on his retirement in London. Mr Collinge’s support of NgatiRanana in the UK included assistance with the return of a number of Maori heads, remains and artefacts to NZ from a variety of sources in the UK [page 268]; support of the Maori Exhibition at the British Museum (of the Captain James Cook and Sir George Grey collections) [page 204]; and in promoting Maori presence in the UK (including in relation to the restoration of the Hinemihi meeting house) [page 269]. The Pacific Islands Society also writes to him of its appreciation of ’the close and friendly interest which you have personally shown in the work of the Society’ [page 238].
(b)New Zealand: Mr Collinge was responsible for a review by the Alcohol Advisory Council (ALAC) which resulted in a significant increase in its Maori programme [page 127]. As Chairman of ALAC, he had warned liquor companies against promotions targeted against Maori and Pacific Islanders [page 126]. As Chairman of the AEPB, he was thanked on the Marae by NgatiWhatua elders for the lighting of their Church in Okahu Bay [page 4]. As President of the National Party, he promoted more Maori and Pacific Island representation as that ‘would contribute to National’s chances of long term success’ [page 134] and the settlement of Treaty claims [at page 251]. It was under his Presidency that the National Party first introduced and passed the remit that the Treaty of Waitangi was afounding document of New Zealand which, shortly thereafter, led to the compensation process.
Any country depends, for its cohesion and well being, upon the inclusiveness of all of its antecedents and people. In New Zealand, the promotion of Maori interests, particularly by pakeha, is essential in achieving such goals, thereby honouring Treaty principles.