Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
1844
Young Ngapuhi chief Hone Heke challenges British sovereignty, first by cutting down the British flag
at Kororareka (now Russell), then by sacking the town itself. The ensuing Northland war continues
until 1846.
1858
The Waikato chief Te Wherowhero is installed as the first Maori King.
1860-69
First and Second Taranaki wars, starting with the controversial swindling of Maori land by the gov-
ernment at Waitara, and continuing with outrage over the confiscation of more land as a result.
1861
Gold discovered in Otago by Gabriel Read, an Australian prospector. As a result, the population of
Otago climbs from less than 13,000 to over 30,000 in six months.
1863-64
Waikato Land War. Up to 5000 Maori resist an invasion mounted by 20,000 imperial, colonial and
'friendly' Maori troops. Despite surprising successes, Maori are defeated and much land is confis-
cated.
1868-72
East Coast war. Te Kooti, having led an escape from his prison on the Chatham Islands, leads a holy
guerrilla war in the Urewera region. He finally retreats to establish the Ringatu Church.
1886-87
Tuwharetoa tribe gifts the mountains of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro to the government to
establish the world's fourth national park.
1893
NZ becomes the first country in the world to grant the vote to women, following a campaign led by
Kate Sheppard, who petitioned the government for years.
1901
NZ politely declines the invitation to join the new Commonwealth of Australia.
