Commemorations mark 175th anniversary of Ruapekapeka Pā conflict

Hundreds have gathered near the Ruapekapeka Pā site in the Far North today to remember those on both sides of the historic conflict 175 years on.

The battle was one of the first few major clashes since the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, following a series of protests in the north by Māori demanding the Crown honour its promises.

In early January, 1846, a force of more than 1000 armed British Troops bombarded the small settlement as a response to the growing division, while Northern chief Te Ruki Kawiti and his people hid inside underground bunkers.

Remarkably, most of them survived the attack and escaped unharmed.

A dawn service this morning saw descendants of Kawiti march and chant across the pa in honour of them.

Hapu around the North were also invited to raise flags, perform karakia and speak. Many expressed how the battle exemplified the relentless determination their people had to uphold the treaty and create a society where Māori were treated fairly and could thrive.

The prime minister is attending a nearby service at the old British Camp Site, not far from Ruapekapeka, to help unveil a memorial dedicated to the British soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict.

In 2017, a number of their graves were unearthed at the site, and today is a chance to acknowledge them properly.

Ngāti Hine leader Pita Tipene said the event was about honouring history in a balanced way, and doing the right thing.

He said the ambition and desire his people had for the treaty to be honoured is yet to be realised.

Military veterans were present at the ceremony, including Willie Apiata VC as well as representatives from Labour's Māori caucus including Kelvin Davis and Peeni Henare.

The Governor-General and British High Commissioner have also been welcomed to the site.