during the 1950s ramsden's wellington home was used as a base by numerous maori leaders for accommodation and meetings when they were in the capital on business with the government. his children were encouraged to keep close contact with their maori relatives. his involvement with maori gained him recognition as a leading commentator on maori affairs. from 1949 he was consulted on maori issues by the prime minister, sidney holland, and the minister of maori affairs, ernest corbett. he was recognised by maori on marae and at major hui.