Ruapekapeka

Ruapekapeka Pa is a historic site located in Towai, Northland, New Zealand, and is one of the largest and most complex Maori pa in the country.

The site is located 14 kilometers southeast of Kawakawa and is known for its intricate design, which includes tunnels, rifle pits, and trenches. The highly intricate pa was surrounded by a strong palisade, but its garrison was outnumbered four to one. Governor George Grey had convinced his superiors of the need for more men, and a force of around 1300 British troops and 400 Maori began to advance on Ruapekapeka in early December 1845. A dozen British had been killed, and rather more Maori. Some of the British may have been shot by their own side as they scoured the pa for non-existent loot. Despard and Grey proclaimed a ‘brilliant success’.

The history of Ruapekapeka is entwined with that of the Treaty of Waitangi, a living document that continues to shape New Zealand society. The site was the location of Northland's last battle between British colonial forces and northern Maori in 1845 and 1846. Ruapekapeka Pa is a Tohu Whenua site, which means it is one of the places that have shaped Aotearoa New Zealand. These places are located in stunning landscapes and rich with stories, offering some of the best heritage experiences in the country. The site is significant in that it counteracts the powerful myth that Maori and Pakeha were miraculously joined as one after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. The conflict between British colonial forces and northern Maori in 1845 and 1846 culminated in the battle of Ruapekapeka Pa.

Ruapekapeka Pa is New Zealand's best-maintained and presented battlefield site, with new memorials, high-quality tracks, and excellent interpretation panels. The site is clean and well-maintained, and it's very easy to walk around and explore. Visitors can watch a short film on the Radio NZ website to learn more about the history of the site. The walk is gentle and easy, taking only five minutes. The site is also located alongside the excellent Timperley Reserve, which has superb Puriri trees. The fact that no provisions or ammunition were left behind in the pa suggests that this was an organized withdrawal. The pa may have served its purpose and been abandoned, or the defenders may have hoped that the soldiers would be drawn into an ambush by Heke and his men in the dense bush outside the pa.

In summary, Ruapekapeka Pa is a significant historic site in New Zealand that offers visitors a chance to explore the intricate design of a Maori pa and learn about the conflict between British colonial forces and northern Maori in the mid-1800s. The site is well-maintained and presented, with excellent interpretation panels and a short film available to watch. Visitors can also explore the nearby Timperley Reserve, which has superb Puriri trees.