DEATH OF TARAPIPIPI.

Waikato Times, Volume XI, Issue 892, 12 March 1878, Page 3

DEATH OF TARAPIPIPI.

Tarapipipi, the well-known chief of the Ngatipoua, whose settlement is so well known to travellers between Waikato and Grahamstown, died on Saturday night. Tarapipipi, who is closely related to the King, was half Ngatipoua, half Ngatihaua — his mother and father belonging to either tribe, respectively. He was one of the old Maori regime, having 1 been born between sixty and seventy years ago, when there was deadly war between the Hanrakis and the Waikatos. The Haurakis were beaten in this struggle, and the Waikatos took possession of Te Aroha by right of conquest. Tarapipipi, although high in authority with the King, has always been a sincere friend to the Europeans and a man whose word could be depended upon, and, as head chief of the Ngatipoua, held undisputed sway over that tribe. He has lived both in Waikato and Hauraki, but has resided most of his time between Piako and Hauraki, and lately at a settlement at the head of the Mangamana creek, called Hoeatainui. There will be a great gathering of natives, from all parts of the island, to take part in the tangi, which will be held on his death.