The Māori king, iwi leaders, politicians, dignitaries and an eastern Bay of Plenty tribe will be commemorating the 150th anniversary of an attack on Te Tarata Pā by colonial troops.
The site where the battle took place - where Te Tarata Pā once stood. Photo: Woodlands School
This Sunday 4 October marks 150 years since that incident took place on the Kiorekino plains at Waioeka in Ōpōtiki in 1865.
One of the organisers, Robyn Hata-Gage, said it was a hugely significant event for Te Whakatōhea and would be a chance to educate people about how their lands were confiscated by the Crown.
But she said this kind of history needed to be part of the school curriculum.
"Our kura kaupapa Māori they're learning about Te Tarata, they're learning about the unlawful hanging of our tipuna Mokomoko as a result of being accused of killing of the missionary Carl Volkner," she said.
"It's hugely important historic event that our children should learn."
Te Tarata Committee chairperson Te Rua Rakuraku said it would be the first time Te Whakatōhea had held such a significant event.
"We are excited to be able to commemorate the battle and educate our whānau about the history that unfolded in Te Whakatōhea in the 1865 that resulted in the raupatu of all our lands.
"Whakatōhea is now on a committed path to uncovering the consequences of this unjust legislation. The commemorations is a significant first step in the process and also in the pre-settlement stages for our Iwi," Ngāti Ira hapū member Te Ringahuia Hata added.
The memorial stone that sits on the site where the battle occurred. Photo: Tumeke FM
Hundreds of Te Whakatōhea descendants have been practising for about nine months for the welcoming ceremony with a final practise on Saturday.
The event begins at 4am on Sunday morning with the unveiling of commemorative pou.
The Māori king and iwi from the across the country will be given a huge pōwhiri by an expected crowd of 300 people at 10am, followed by a final welcome at midday for dignitaries and politicians.
