MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 23 February 1939, Page 10

MAORI MEMORIES

TARANAKI’S PREDICAMENT. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) In 1834 the whole of the fertile larlds of Taranaki were occupied by the Ngatiawa tribe. The Waikato and Manaiapoto tribes in great numbers killed, conquered, or dispersed all but a remnant who took refuge on the wilds of Egmont ranges. Three years later Colonel Wakefield of the N.Z. Company, decided to “acquire by fair means” the whole of this rich deserted area. He first paid the exiled Ngatiawa Chiefs living on both shores of Cook Strait a trifling sum. In 1840 the remnant of the tribe still sheltering in Taranaki were similarly rewarded. In 1842 the Waikato conquerors were paid in money and goods to the alleged value of £3OO. When the N.Z. Company's settlers formed the township of New Plymouth, some of the fugitive Ngatiawa, realising this protection against their former enemies the Waikato, re-occupied their old homes, and were joined by their fellows now released from slavery by their Christian masters. Commissioner Spain’s judgment that the purchase (2|d per acre) was valid and complete brought threats of serious revolt by the former inhabitants. Governor Fitzroy agreed that a further payment of £350 would be made for the re-occupied portion of 3,500 acres only, and that the balance be returned to the first owners. Mr Gladstone, Secretary of State, favoured Mr Spain’s judgment; but in 1860 Sir George Grey’s more experienced reasoning decided that Governor Fitzroy’s decision should be adhered to. The sequel to these varied opinions is to follow. >.