A Reminiscence.

Opunake Times, Volume II, Issue 93, 24 May 1895, Page 2

A Reminiscence.

The dreadful Maori tragedy that has taken place at Mahoetahi recalls the historic fact that this place was the scene of a severe engagement in the days when wars and rumors of wars were common enough in northern New Zealand. It was in 1860 that certain Waikato chiefs sent a boastful message to the Europeans: — ■' Come inland that we may-meet. Fish fight at sea. Come inland and let us stand on our feet. Make haste, make haste ; do not prolong it." On November sth came the news that a body of Waikatos would be at Mahoetahi early on the following day—the place being about eight miles from Taranaki, on the road to Waitara. At four o'clock in the morning between six and seven hundred troops set out from Taranaki, and two hours later found themselves under fire, the natives being posted in a« pah, and scattered about the adjoining fern and swamp. Presently another body of troops, some three hundred, had moved up from Waitara, ana" the record runs, " The enemy finding himself thus hemmed in, and under a most murderous cross-fire, after an action that lasted two hours, turned and fled with much loss. Shot and shell burst over and amongst the fugitives, and the retreat was rapid and the route was complete." Four of the English were killed in that engagement and 15 wounded, while the Maoris suffered heavy loss.—Christchurch Star.