Members of the Constabulary Field Force prepare to advance on Parihaka in late 1881. On 5 November more than 1,500 armed men surrounded the township and arrested passive-resistance leaders Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi. Over the next few weeks many of the residents were evicted and their houses were destroyed. The two chiefs were given an enforced tour of the South Island, designed to demonstrate to them the advantages and power of Pākehā society. They were returned to Parihaka in 1883.

After many years of decline, the village of Parihaka was rejuvenated in the late 20th century. From 2006 it was the venue for the annual Parihaka Peace Festival, which drew visitors from all over New Zealand.