This very modest memorial on the outskirts of Tauranga marks the site of one of the most famous battles of the New Zealand wars. At Gate Pā in April 1864 Māori defenders, heavily outnumbered and faced with a strong artillery barrage, managed to throw back an assault by British troops. They eventually evacuated the pā, but not before inflicting over 100 casualties on the British. The earthwork defences at Gate Pā became well-known in military circles in Britain, but Pākehā New Zealanders preferred to forget the conflict and the earthworks were destroyed. The New Zealand wars never became central to the identity of European New Zealanders, although they continue to be remembered by Māori.
Using this item
Private collection
by Jock Phillips and Chris Maclean
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