THE TARANAKI MISSACRES.

Tuapeka Times, Volume II, Issue 56, 6 March 1869, Page 5

THE TARANAKI MISSACRES.

Tie following letter published recently in the "Wellington Independent," throws some light on the recent disaster at White CliiFs :— " Urenui, 21st February, 1869. ' ' My dear Parris,— l have learned more minute particulars concerning the deaths of Europeans at Pukearuhe. The war party arrived at the Clifis in broad day. Only two Europeans were at the blockhouß3, Itichards and M'Milne. These were enticed away by being told that there were a number of pigs for Bale on th 9 beach. M'Milne went first, he was \ >mahawked on the road leading to the beach. Seeing that Richards did not follow, the murderera returned, urging him to come and look at the pigs. The unfortunate man followed, and wa3 killed near to where M'Milne fell. The taua party then rushed up to the redoubt. Lieutenant Gascoigne, wife, and children were absent, being in their field of corn and potatoes, situated in Pukearuhe township. On looking up he observed Natives at the blockhouse ; lie at once •

returned towards them, carrying the youngest child. Mrs. Gascoigne and the other two children following. Oil ariiving at the little stream at the baa© of the hill upon which the blockhouse stood, Lieutenant Gascoigne turned and gave the child to his wife, going forward to see the Maories. Upon meeting with the scoundrels they shook hands with himright and lef fc, accompanying him to hi* own door ; upon Lieutenant (lascoign© raising his hand to open the door of thehouse, he. was struck from behind, and then fell. Soon after, Mrs. Gascoigne came with her children, when they were aU killed. "About sunset, Mr. Whiteley was seen approaching on horseback, though not recognised until descending the hiil leading to the old pa. He was permitted to advance across the stream and ascend the hill opposite ; he was then met and ordered to return ; this the poor gentleman refused to do. His horse was then shot, and Mr. Whiteley himself killed by five shots. The rebels are said to be posted at the Tirohanga, near Katkatiake, beyond the Wliite Cliffa. Brevet-Major Strapp will show you my letter to him. I will do the best I can until I see yoa. — 1 am, " Thomas Good." It will be seen that serious disturbances are threatened in Tarnaki, the war party numbering some 140, fanatics, who if not immediately dispersed, may do uncalculable mischief.