Story: Conscription, conscientious objection and pacifism

Parihaka, early 20th century

Religious leaders and pacifists Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi built up a pan-tribal community at Parihaka in Taranaki in the late 19th century. Much of the village was destroyed by a large military force in 1881, and Te Whiti, Tohu and other leaders were imprisoned. They later returned to Parihaka and rebuilt the community. This photo shows Te Whiti's son-in-law Taare Waitara with a class of children in the early 20th century. Many wear or display a white feather symbolising non-violence.

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library, William Andrew Collis Collection (PAColl-3032)
Reference: 1/1-006430-G
Photograph by W. A. Collis

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Mark Derby, 'Conscription, conscientious objection and pacifism - Pacifism', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/zoomify/35696/parihaka-early-20th-century (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Mark Derby, published 20 Jun 2012