SMART ENGAGEMENT AT NUKUMARU.

Wanganui Herald, Volume II, Issue 466, 28 November 1868, Page 2

SMART ENGAGEMENT AT NUKUMARU.

EIGHT HAU-HAUS KILLED.

We have received the follow-ing-copy of a despatch, from Colonel Whitmore:

Head Quarters, Woodall's, Nov. 27, 1868. Sir, —I have the honor to inform you that I marched this morning with all the cavalry, being- 66 of all ranks and corps, three hours before daylight to Wairoa, and remained there five or six hours, returning at ( 11 a.m. with the despatches from Captain Hawes. I reached Nukumaru at about 1, and, in accordance with your orders, remained in concealment until an opportunity presented itself to act. After waitingabout an hour and a-half, perceiving a considerable number about Mr Handley's wool-shed, I directed some men to advance dismounted, and followed with the rest of the force on horseback. Unfortunately, a carbine went off by accident, which gave the alarm, and prevented our being as completely successful as we hoped, but as soon as possible we mounted the dismounted men and charged, killing eight with sabre, revolver, or carbine. I wish particularly to mention the extreme gallantry of Sergt. G. Maxwell of the Kai Iwi Cavalry, who himself sabred two and shot one of the enemy, and was conspicuous throughout the affair, many others of all corps behaved extremely well, but I think it would be invidious to particularise further. The enemy turned out immediately and kept up a sharp fire, following us about three miles. The enemy is encamped in large force in rear of Nukumaru near the bush, and has sixbftll tents erected. I returned to cairo at 6 p.m.; must acknowledge the/assistance rendered tome by Capt O'lf alloran, of the Patea Yeomanry Cavalry, and Lieut Bryce, commanding the Kai Iwi and Wanganui Cavalry. These gentlemen were prominent in this affair, and set their men a gallant example. I have the honor, &c. } yv W. Newland, £ Sub. Inspector A.C.