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Farewell to Sir Bernard Ferguson by Ngāti Tuwharetoa people of Waihi.
The Governor General, Sir Bernard Ferguson and Lady Ferguson accompained by their son Geordie, were given an official Māori farewell at Waihi, on Saturday 26 August 1997 by the people of Tuwharetoa.
Several hundred tribal members gathered from many parts of New Zealand for the occasion.
As the Vice Regal Party approached the Tapeka Marae, they were challenged by Mr. R.Te Heuheu (brother of the Paramount chief Sir Hepi Te Heuheu) and by Mr. R.Hako. This was accompanied by vigorous hakas. After the Governor General received the challenge tokens, local Māori began a powhiri chant.
The Vice Regal party was escorted by Mr.J. T.H Grace and Mrs H. Te Heuheu their son Geordie was escorted by 14 year old Augustin Te Heuheu.
Speeches of welcome were given by Mr. Maraenui Iwikau and Mr. Pateriki Hura.
The Governor General then replied.