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PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE REBEL NATIVES.
PRESENTED TO BOTH HOUSES OP THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BT COMMAND OP HIS EXCELLENCY.
WELLINGTON.
1870.
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PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE REBEL NATIVES.
No. 1. The Civil Commissioner, Tauranga, to the Under Secretary, Native Department. (D. 57-2) Civil Commissioner's Office, Sir,— Tauranga, 16th August, 1869. I have the honor to transmit for the information of the Government the enclosed copy of a Native letter (with translation) addressed by the Pirirakau hapu to the Ngaiterangi generally, requesting them to go to their village in the ranges, and take with them their arms. I have also received an invitation, in precisely the same terms, requesting me to accompany the Ngaiterangi. To these letters I have replied in friendly terms, declining to sanction the going out of the Ngaiterangi, and suggesting that if they really fear a visit from Te Kooti it would be far better for them to come in and join the bulk of their people; that such a demonstration as they proposed would only be misconstrued by the Colony, and likely to produce unnecessary alarm. I can scarcely understand the object of the Pirirakau, a hapu always hostile to the Government, in making this application ; and from the fact that I have constantly watched their proceedings with distrust, I am afraid lest I should be led from past experience to impute wrong motives, and view with suspicion what may be a genuine desire to make common cause against any attempted aggression by Te Kooti. I am informed by a Native clergyman residing in this district that on the 13th instant one of Te Kooti's men was in this town for several hours. The object of his visit is not known. I was not made aware of the circumstance till four and twenty hours after he took his departure. He is a Ngatiporou, younger brother of Te Munu, was with Te Kooti at Whakatane, Mohaka, and Opepe, and after Te Kooti's arrival in the Waikato was sent with Te Popata to Mataora, a place about ten miles to the north of this district, where a considerable party of Ngatiporou have established themselves, with a view to induce those people to join Te Kooti in the Waikato district. The commission under the Tauranga District Lands Act is progressing favourably, and will, I hope, settle once for all the troublesome land question of this district. I have, &c, H. T. Clarke, The Under Secretary, Native Department, Civil Commissioner. Wellington. Enclosure in No. 1. Te Whakamarama, 13th Akuhata, 1869. Xi Opuhi, ki Opureora, Id Opounui, ki Eangiwaea, Id Whareroa, Id te Matapihi, Id Maungatapu, ki Hairini; otera ki on rolie katoa. Ehoa ma. Tenei ra koutou katoa. He kupu tenei ki a koutou nacre mai koutou kite Whakamarama me te koutou tokotoko hei mohio noa ma tatou katoa, me haere mai koutou i te 17th Akuhata. Ko Kooti kei te ngaro, kua oti tepe eTe Kingi mo tana mahi kino. Tetahi whare hold mo koutou. Heoi. Na te Pooti katoa.
[translation.] Te Whakamarama, 13th August, 1869. To Opuhi, to Opureora, to Opounui, to Eangiwaea, to Whareroa, to Te Matapihi, to Maungatapu, to Hairini*—that is to say, to all your boundaries. Friends. Salutations to you all. This is a word to you. Come you to Whakamarama with your walking sticks (arms) as a simple precaution on our part. Do you come on the 17th August. Kooti has disappeared (vanished) ; he has been expelled by the King for his evil doings. Bring tents with you. Prom all the " Pooti." * Names of Native villages in Tauranga.
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No. 2. The Civil Commissioner, Tauranga, to the Under Secretary, Native Department. (D. 58-2) Civil Commissioner's Office, Sir, — Tauranga, 20th August, 1869. In continuation of my report of the 16th instant, D. 57-2, I have the honor to acquaint you that I have received another letter from the Pirirakau Natives, pressing their invitation upon the Ngaiterangi to go out and meet them at their settlement. In my communication above alluded to, I wished to disabuse my mind of the feeling of distrust I have been accustomed to entertain towards the actions and motives of this hapu, and I ventured to hope that their request emanated from a genuine desire to make common cause against any attempted aggression by Te Kooti. I regret to state that I believe this is another instance of their disingenuousness and a desire to draw out the Ngaiterangi for some ulterior purpose. After perusing enclosures Nos. 1 and 2, I can come to no other conclusion. On their own showing, all fear of Te Kooti had passed away, yet they still urge their request. On the other hand, I am glad to be able to inform you that the Ngaiterangi show a disposition to be guided by me in the matter, and have refused to go. I have received, or become possessed of, several Native letters from different quarters, all of which purport to convey correct information of Te Kooti's movements, but are so contradictory of each other that no dependence can be placed on any one of them. I enclose the originals (with translations) of these several documents with the primary object of showing how hard it is to arrive at the truth. In enclosure No. 2, I am informed that Te Kooti is gone to Whanganui ; in No. 3, that he is gone to Mokau, and that on his return Tauranga or Rotorua will be attacked. No. 4 supports this latter statement; and in No. 5, lam cautioned against receiving statements from other sources, and am told that Te Kooti has returned to Ruatahuna. I yesterday received certain information that the three Native prisoners who made their escape from the Monmouth Redoubt, reported in my letter of the 9th instant, have reached the Patetere District. Maihi Pohepohc, nephew of the old Chief Hakaraia, who, with his uncle, joined Te Kooti at Taupo, has again visited his relatives at Maungatapu. There was a great gathering of people on the occasion, to hear of the doings of Te Kooti in Waikato. Maihi made a long statement, the substance of which, as related by Te Ranapia, and corroborated by Arama Karaka and Parete, is contained in the enclosed Memorandum. If there is any truth in the statement that Te Kooti has retired towards Taupo, we shall soon hear of it. I have, &c, The Under Secretary, Native Department, Hy. T. Clarke, Wellington. Civil Commissioner. Enclosure 1 in No. 2. To Te Kuka and Te Puru, — Te Umuokorongaehe, 12th August, 1869. Friends —Salutations to you both, and to our parent. This ends the greeting. This is a word to you for you both to come here in the love manifested by Tawhiao for all the people in Tauranga. From Nga Tupara.
Enclosure 2 in No. 2. To Henry Clarice, —• Te Whakamarama, 16th August, 1869. Friend—Salutations. Your letter has arrived; we have seen it, and it is good. We still invite you and your children (the Ngaiterangi) to come here on the 17th of August. Te Kooti has gone to Wanganui. A mailman came to us on the 15th, with this news. This is all. From Pene Tuaia. Enclosure 3 in No. 2. To Mr. Clarke, Civil Commissioner, — Ohinemuri, 4th August, 1869. Friend —Salutations to you and your tribes. This is a word to you. A man has come here to Ohinemuri from Te Kooti. I have seen him and my ears have heard his words. This is the word : Tauranga is to be the place where the blow of Te Kooti's weapon will fall, and Kotorua also; and now, O friend, concerning this matter, do not think that I am speaking falsely. Listen. Tc Kooti is at Mokau at present; when he returns from thence perhaps (the fighting) will begin. Don't tell Ngaiterangi of this letter of mine, but rather tell the Arawa; that will be well. Be careful, be watchful; and if I hear further news I will write and inform you. I write this on board the boat in the evening. My hands arc trembling through anxiety and love for my tribe the Arawa. This is all. From your loving friend, To Henry Clarke, Tauranga. Topi Te Kahuwiiara (a Ngatiraukawa).
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Enclosure 4 in No. 2. Whangamata, 2nd August, 1869. " This is a showing of mine to you, that is to you all, concerning Te Kooti's intentions about Tauranga, so that you may know; Tauranga will be attacked by Tc Kooti. This is a true word of mine." From Wi Kotero. This letter was addressed to Akuhata Tupaea (son of Hori Tupaea), who allowed me to copy this extract. —Henry T. Clarke.
Enclosure 5 in No. 2. To Mr. Clarke,— Te Akeake, 18th August, 1869. Salutations —The word, listen you, is that Tc Kooti has returned to his place Ruatahuna. This is an established word. He will depart in these days. Do not you listen to the reports travelling along the borders of Tauranga. There will be no fighting at Tauranga. The doors of fighting will be Maketu and Te Awa ote atua. That is all. From your friend, Paraone Te Rauhea.
Enclosure 6 in No. 2. Memo, of Statement made by Ranapia, Arama Karaka, and Pareti, of Speech made by Maihi Pohepohe to the Ngatihe, giving an account of Tc Kooti's proceedings in the Waikato. Hakaraia and myself were on our way to Taupo, when we received a letter from Te Kooti, requesting an interview. Hakaraia consented, and wrote a letter to that effect. We travelled towards Pukerimu. On our way we met a man, who stated that Te Kooti had declared his intention of destroying all those who would not agree with him, and that he would make no distinction between Hauhaus and Queen Natives. Hakaraia then said—" The words of this man do not agree with the letter I have received from Te Kooti; I do not believe him.''' We journeyed on to Pukerimu, where we met Tc Kooti, with 300 followers, amongst whom was Te Heuheu. Tc Kooti had left a part of his force at Tokaanui and Waihi, to watch the Pakehas and the Arawa. In the evening we assembled, and Te Kooti got up to address the people, and especially Hakaraia. He spoke for five hours, and made quotations from a large book written in the English language. During this long address, which was listened to with great attention by every one, Hakaraia constantly said to me —" Te Kooti is a true man. I thought I knew a good deal, but this man's knowledge is much greater than mine. I shall have to succumb to him." His knowledge did not only relate to things of the earth, but extended to those of heaven. Hakaraia agreed to accompany him to Tokangamutu. Te Kooti and his people marched with a bold front, and did not show any symptoms of fear. The news of his intention to visit Tokangamutu had preceded him, and the King had assembled his people, for great was his fear of Te Kooti. He had succeeded in getting together 250 men, thirty of whom were Ngatimaniapoto. The rest of the King's followers would not respond to the King's request for assistance, from fear. When Te Kooti arrived at Tokangamutu, he did not go to Tc Kuiti, the King's house, but to Taupiri, the Ngatimaniapoto house. Rewi was there with his thirty men. In reply to Tc Kooti, Rewi welcomed him in the most cordial terms, and said : " That he was the long hoped for; that he was ready to accept all Te Kooti's demands; that he had often asked his lord (the King) to be allowed to take arms, but was not permitted." Te Kooti's force amounted to 500 men, and great was the number of breechloaders and rifles amongst them. It was here that Te Kooti first heard that it had been stated that he had come to depose the King. Tc Kooti denied this, and said —"That it was not in him to trangress the laws of God by destroying His anointed. That every man had his mission from above ; some were masters, others were servants. He (Tc Kooti) was a servant, sent to punish the wicked. The sword had been placed into his hands, and he would use it. He came to greet the King, and to rouse the Waikato to take up arms. It was not right that the tribe who initiated the quarrel with the Pakeha, dragged the island into the sea, and made many fatherless and widows, should remain quiet while the sword was being lifted in other places." Rewi was pleased with this, and said his joy was great. Invitations were sent to assemble all the people of Waikato to meet Te Kooti. Rewi sent these messengers. Waikato soon assembled to the number of 500 men, and they collected a large quantity of food, —dried sharks and flour. The flour had been supplied by the Pakeha to Waikato previously. Tc Kooti said he should consider himself the host (tangata whenua), and that the Waikato were his visitors. He ordered his 500 men to load their guns with ball cartridges, and, when the Waikatos came within a short distance, he gave the word to fire over their heads. Great was the fear of the Waikato. They threw the food down and ran away. They retired a short distance, and were very angry. They said that they would fight Tc Kooti on the following day. When Te Kooti heard of it, he said — " Heed them not; it is only talk." Te Kooti waited a week, but 2
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the Waikatos kept aloof, and would not see him. Then Te Kooti selected twelve of the principal men of his party, including Te Rangikaitupuaki (Paerau), and sent them as a deputation to the Waikato. Eleven of the deputation spoke in succession, but the Waikato would make no reply. Then rose Rangikaitupuaki, and said—" Waikato, —You have taken offence, have you, because the bullets were sent whizzing over your heads ? You say that you will fight. Come over there, and let us fight it out. I know you of old. Look at Orakau. Did you lose there as I did ? Look at the trouble you have caused to other tribes by your "King" movement. Look at Taranaki, look at Tauranga, look at Napier, and other places. All the tribes of the Island have suffered through you, and here you are idle. I know you. You know how to take care of yourselves. If you are in earnest, come and let us fight it out. Yon dare not, for you know you will be beaten." Such was the effect of Rangikaitupuaki's speech, that all Ngatimaniapoto joined Te Kooti, including Tapihaua and Tikaokao. Te Kooti has now 800 men, and is on his way back to Taupo, there to await the Pakeha. If they will not attack him there, he will go to Kaingaroa and there wait, then to Ahikereru and there wait, and to Ruatahuna, and so on to Waikare-Moana. There he will take up the offensive, and destroy the Ngatiporou. When he has made an end of his own Maori enemies, then he will again return to Waikato, and from thence attack the Arawa, Tauranga, and the Pakeha settlements at Waikato. Te Kooti will make his name great. He can do nothing now, as there is no food. Great was our suffering for want of food. He desired Hakaraia to return home and encourage his people to grow food. Hakaraia and myself have been with Te Kooti during the whole time. He has now gone towards Taupo, and Rewi with him. True Memo, of Statement made by Ranapia, and corroborated by Arama Karaka and Parcti. 20th August, 1869. Henry T. Clarke.
No. 3. The Under Secretary, Native Department, to the Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Sir,' — Native Office, Wellington, 15th September, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 20th August last, No. D. 58-2, reporting the continued urgency of the Pirirakau Natives that Ngaiterangi should visit them at their settlements in the bush, and enclosing letters from various Native sources giving conflicting reports as to Te Kooti's movements. Mr. McLean has read your letter with much interest. It is known for a certainty that Te Kooti is at Rotoaira, and has lately sustained a defeat at the hands of the loyal Natives. At the same time it is quite necessary that reports, however conflicting, should be furnished to the Government, as it would otherwise be impossible to arrive at the truth out of the various rumours afloat as to the movements of such men as Te Kooti. You are requested to keep Mr. Ormond supplied, as opportunity may offer, with all information of this nature which may reach you. I have, &c, 11. T. Clarke, Esq., Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. G. S. Cooper.
No. 4. The Under Secretary, Native Department, to His Honor J. D. Ormond, Napier. Sir, — Native Office, Wellington, 15th September, 1869. I am directed by Mr. McLean to enclose for your information the copy of a letter from Mr. Commissioner Clarke, and of my reply thereto. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond, Esq., Napier. G. S. Cooper, Under Secretary.
No. 5. The Civil Commissioner, Tauranga, to the Under Secretary, Native Department. (D. 62-2) Civil Commissioner's Office, Sir, — Tauranga, 29th August, 1869. In my communication of the 20th instant, I enclosed a memorandum of a statement made by Maihi Pohepohc, giving a narrative of the proceedings of Te Kooti during his visit to Waikato, and also a programme of his future plans so far as they were known. In addition to that statement I have the honor to inform you that, on the 22nd instant, the Venerable Archdeacon Brown had an interview with Maihi, and kindly furnished me with the substance of the intelligence he had obtained, and which related chiefly to Te Kooti's declared future movements, and which quite corroborates the statement given in the memorandum above
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alluded to. Maihi informed the Archdeacon that Te Kooti had 800 men, who, if not actually with him had embraced his cause, made up as follows : — Te Kooti's immediate followers . . . . .. .. 250 Ngatimaniapoto and Waikato .. . . . . . . 300 Tuwharetoa (Taupo) . . . . . . .. 150 Urewera, &c. .. .. . . . . .. 100 Total .. . . . . .. 800 men. Te Kooti will go leisurely back to the Urewera country, via Napier. When in the Urewera country he will organize expeditions against the friendly Natives, commencing with the Ngatiporou, against whom and the Arawa he entertains a deadly hatred. I have received information from Taupo that Te Kooti has actually arrived at Rotoaira, and from a letter I received from Tapuaeharuru to-day it would appear that he is fortifying Mocrangi, and his mounted men are visiting different Hauhau villages, apparently for the purpose of making observations and collecting information. I very much regret to have to state that there is very little doubt now of the defection of Te Heuheu, and the principal part of his people, to be followed, I hear, by many more who have hitherto held out. Herewith I enclose the copy of a Native letter on the subject. I also enclose copies of correspondence between myself and Captain St. George, which contain several items of information respecting Te Kooti, but chiefly to other matters relating to the Native force now garrisoning Tapuaeharuru. The question of transport has become a serious one, inasmuch as it will entail a heavy expenditure, which I have endeavoured in every possible way to obviate. The enclosures will, however, explain themselves. I also transmit a copy of a letter from Dr. Nesbitt, covering an original letter from Tawhiao to the Ngatiwhakaue, and a copy of their reply thereto. I forward the original letter, to which I attach some importance, although couched in rather ambiguous language. It is, however, generally considered among the Arawa as a challenge. There is, however, no ambiguity in the reply sent by the Ngatiwhakaue chiefs, and will, I think, clearly illustrate the relations which exist between ourselves and the Arawa. With regard to the letter from Tawhiao, I was struck the other clay, when looking over a copy of the Southern Cross of the 19th instant, to sec copies of two Maori letters purporting to come from Tamati Ngapora to Mr. Charles O. Davis, in which a reference is made to a letter which had been sent to the Arawa at Rotorua. This, I suppose, is the letter referred to, and is in the handwriting of Hunia, Tawhiao's secretary. The Tauranga Natives, now that there is a certainty of Te Kooti having left Waikato, are again settling down to their usual occupations. I enclose a copy of a letter from the Pirirakau chief Rawiri to Enoka te Whanaka, one of our principal men, throwing further light upon the late attempt to draw the Ngaiterangi from their allegiance. I have every reason to be satisfied with the conduct of the leading men. I have, &c, The Under Secretary, Native Department. 11. T. Clarke, Civil Commissioner.
Enclosure 1 in No. 5. To Perenara, — Te Raoatanga, 18th August, 1869. This is to inform you that Te Kooti has arrived at Rotoaira. His permanent place of abode will be at Waitahanui. Then he will turn and fight against you. Be you on your guard. Tc Kooti's plans are very strong and complete. This is all. This is the word of Manga (Rewi Maniapoto) to you. Do you all come back to the Hauhaus. This is his fixed word, and also Tawhiao's. Manga is with Te Kooti, looking on at his work ; he is without any followers, and is travelling cautiously. This is also another word for you to listen to : Ngatituwharetoa Tribe will support Te Kooti firmly, and have not dispersed (or gone back to their homes). This is all. Tini Wata. Petera. Rangihinea. And from all of us.
Enclosure 2 in No. 5. The Civil Commissioner, Tauranga, to Captain St. George, Taupo. Sir, — Civil Commissioner's Office, Tauranga, August 11, 1869. I have the honor to inform you that I have, in accordance with your request, intrusted to Perahama Te Kunu and Te Hemopo, a parcel, directed to your address, containing the sum of two hundred and twenty-one pounds and seventeen shillings sterling, less six pounds advanced to the Natives named in the margin. They also take with them two kegs of Enfield ammunition, and the rest of the horses will be loaded up with flour. Colonel Harington lias managed to send a supply of provisions as far as Kaiteriria, from which place it will be necessary for you to make the best
Te Pohipi, £2 Perabaroa, £2. Te llemopo, £2.
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arrangements possible with a due regard to economy. I would strongly urge, as suggested in my semi-official letter, that an arrangement be made with the Natives to do the transport work at per cwt. or hundred pounds weight, rather than at a fixed sum per diem, and I think that some of those Natives already receiving pay might be detailed to do the duty. The advisability of sending an officer to assist you is under discussion; the principal difficulty being to select an officer of sufficient knowledge of the Maori language and Maori character, so as to render you efficient service. With regard to an Issuer, is it not possible to select from your force a man of sufficient intelligence and probity to do the necessary work ? In the event of your not being able to do so, Colonel Harington has named Trooper Maunscll. I ought to mention to you that the supplies sent you are to be issued on payment; that is to say, the Natives must understand that the price will be deducted from their pay. The Quartermaster has been directed to fix as reasonable a price on the different articles as he consistently can. I have, &c, 11. T. Clarke, Captain St. George, Taupo. Civil Commissioner.
Enclosure 3 in No. 5. Captain St. George to the Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Sir,— Taupo, 18th August, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 11th instant, and the receipt of money as per margin. The men with the pack-horses have not yet arrived. I will do my best in making an arrangement for getting up the stores from Kaiteriria; but I think that arrangements could be made cheaper and better from that end, as we have very few horses, and those very poor ones; besides, wc have no pack-saddles. This being short of horses and saddles makes these people careless of taking this work, and they are always much longer on the journey than men with good horses would be. If I cannot get men to take the packing at per hundred pounds, I shall have to pay the usual five shillings per day for horses, but I will give a certain number of days to do the work in. lam sure that I shall not be able to arrange at less than 15s. per hundred pounds. I hope that an officer will be sent as soon as possible; even if he understands but little Maori, he will be able to take a good deal of the work off my shoulders, and give me more time to attend to other things. With regard to an Issuer, I have detailed a Native to this work, but find that I have to do the work over again myself; still, if one cannot be sent, I must manage as well as I can. I have, &c, Jno. C. St. George, H. T. Clarke, Esq., Civil Commissioner. Government Agent.
£215 17s. Od.
Enclosure 4 in No. 5. Captain St. George to the Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Sir, — Tapuaeharuru, Taupo, 11 p.m., 19th August, 1869. I have the honor to inform you that one of my spies returned from Waihaha an hour ago and brought the following news : — Te Kooti was at Tuhua on Monday. On Tuesday he started for Rotoaira and would arrive there yesterday, when a party of 100 men were to be sent on to Tokano. Rewi Maniapoto is with him, but he has no men. Te Hcuheu and Tuwharctoa have returned with Te Kooti. Te Kooti intends to stay at Taupo and attack Tapuaeharuru; but he also said that if he was not molested he would likely go back to his own country. When Te Kooti comes to attack this place, he will come by the north end of the Lake. He has 240 men and a great number of women and children with him. My spy got this news from Patera, a Hauhau of Hiteri's hapu, who was returning from Tokangamutu with Te Kooti. I send a copy of Patera's letter. I cannot send the men for the goods to Kaitcriria now as I have too few men as it is. If I had sufficient force here now, Te Kooti might be attacked, as he is in an open place, and hampered with women and children; at any rate he could be prevented from getting back to his own country. I have not enough men to do this and hold this place. I send to-morrow to get in as many potatoes as I can. I have hardly any flour, and hope food will be sent up to me; also, some ammunition. I ought to have at least twelve kegs. Can an officer be sent up to assist me at once ? If one was here, I should go myself on an observing expedition; as it is I cannot leave. I have, &c, Jno. C. St. George, H. T. Clarke, Esq., Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Government Agent. I start the orderly off with this at once.
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Enclosure 5 in No. 5. Captain St. George to the Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Dear Sir,— Taupo, 2.2nd August, 1869. The further news of Kooti is that some of his people were at Poaru two days ago. Moerangi is now said by some to be garrisoned by part of his force, and a pa built there. I had warning letters from some of Hiteri's people yesterday; they say they will not be able to send any more, as they have left their part of the country through fear of Te Kooti. I send on a letter for Colonel Harington. In great haste, H. T. Clarke, Esq., Civil Commissioner. Jno. C. St. George.
Enclosure 6 in No. 5. The Civil Commissioner, Tauranga, to Captain St. George. Sir,— Civil Commissioner's Office, Tauranga, 27th August, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your several letters of the 18th, 19th, and 22nd August. With regard to the question of packing stores from Kaiteriria to Taupo, Rewi Tcreanuku has been desired by Colonel Harington to undertake this work, the packmen to be paid at the rate of 15s. per 100 lbs. weight, delivered at Tapuaeharuru. Colonel Harington will make arrangements about sending an officer to assist you. W rith reference to the suggestion thrown out in your letter of 19th instant, that if you had sufficient force Te Kooti might be attacked with advantage, &c, I would observe, whatever our individual opinions may be as servants of the Government, we must endeavour to carry out the policy of the Government of the day. To attack Te Kooti would be to act in direct opposition to the wishes of the Government. lamin a measure led to make the above remarks from the fact that I was yesterday visited by W riremu Keepa of Tuhourangi, and Poia of the Ngatirangitihi, who showed me a general appeal to the Arawa and Ngaiterangi from the Taupo chiefs, soliciting assistance. 1 conjecture that the letter was written with your cognizance, as the address on the envelope is in your handwriting. I informed Keepa and Poia that while I did not wish to prevent their going to the assistance of their Taupo friends if they thought they needed it, I could not send a force which would involve a heavy expenditure of money, unless the urgent necessity for such a step was represented by yourself. I have, &c, Captain St. George, Taupo. 11. T. Clarke, C.C.
Enclosure 7 in No. 5. Dr. Nesbitt to the Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Sir,— Maketu, 24th August, 1869. I have the honor to forward the enclosed letter from Tawhiao, and a copy of Temuera's and Patera's reply. The letter of Tawhiao was brought from Patetcre by a Native named Marino. The Natives here seem to regard it as a sort of challenge from the King party. I have seen a letter from the Taupo Natives urgently requesting the Arawa to go to their assistance. I hope you will not consider it advisable to allow the Ohinemutu people to go. I do not think it would be judicious to leave Rotorua quite unprotected. I have, &c, H. T. Clarke, Esq., Civil Commissioner. W. K. Nesbitt.
Enclosure 8 in No. 5. From Te Kuiti, 10th August, 1869. To Temuera, to Amohau, to Petera Te Pukuatua, to the Chiefs of the Arawa, — A kindly missive in remembrance of the valedictory speech of Te Amohau to Potatau at Auckland, in 1841, in respect of tho fight* against Ngatitabinga for Horea. This was the word of Te Amohau to Potatau : " Let fighting cease, it is not fitting that a tribe of commoners should be your adversary. If you were at war with Hauraki, or with me at Rotorua with tribes of distinction, the contest would be equal." Potatau replied: "It is well;" fighting ceased. Now, do you listen, the Maoris and the Pakeha, Rongowhakaata Tamatea, Te Urewera and Tuwharctoa, have arrived here; soon (they will be followed) by Titokowaru and Tawhana. From your loving friend, From Tawhiao. * The fight between Ngatitipa and Ngatiteata in 1844, when the Ngatiteata lost some of their principal men.—H. T. C. 3
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Enclosure 9 in No. 5. To Tawhiao,— Ohincmutu, 16th August, 1869. O Father —Salutations. Your letter has arrived, and Ngatiwhakaue have seen your words calling to remembrance the valedictory speeches of our fathers ; and in the second place your word respecting those tall men now assembled before you. It is well, the thought is with me : If the word of the Government comes I will arise (take up arms) even though Te Kooti is in your presence, I and my parent (the Government) will be then together. Enough. From Ngatiwhakane. Temuera Te Amohau. Petera Pukuatua.
Enclosure 10 in No. 5. To Enoka, — Te Whakamarama, 22nd August, 1869. O Son, —Salutations. Your letter asking the reason of the invitation to you all tocome lather has arrived. The ground of this invitation is the proclamation of Tawhiao; and secondly, the word apart from that, asking you last month to come hither; these arc the only grounds. For it was you who said if the proclamation came by Te Wairerc that then you would come. As it is, remain where you are, leave me to consider the subject, and when I have arrived at a conclusion you will be again invited. From Rawiri Tata.
No. 6. The Under Secretary, Native Department, to the Civil Commissioner, Tauranga. Sir,— Native Office, Wellington, 29th September, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. D. 62-2, of the 29th August, containing information of the movements of Tc Kooti, and enclosing copies of various letters from Native sources. Mr. McLean desires mc to thank you for the important information you have conveyed to the Government. He is especially pleased with the answer sent by the Arawa Chiefs to Tawhiao's letter. The last news of Te Kooti was, that'having suffered reverses at the hands of the friendly Natives, he had retired to the Mocrangi country, on the west side of Taupo Lake. He has therefore re-entered the King's country, but whether by pre-concert with the Waikato tribes, or as simply retreating before a superior force, is as yet unknown. Manga (Rewi) is said to have left him, and to be at the head waters of WTianganui, but our information on that point is uncertain. I have, &c, 11. T. Clarke, Esq., Tauranga. G. S. Cooper.
No. 7. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Defence Minister Sir, — Napier, 2nd September, 1869 In my report dated 30th August, I informed you of the different movements that had been carried out to support the friendly Natives at Taupo and check Te Kooti. No information of great interest has come to hand since, and you have been fully informed by telegraph of everything that has reached me. From Lieut.-Colonel Derrick's telegram of yesterday's date, yon will have learned that the Constabulary at Runanga arc engaged in forming a position there. I was not prepared to hear what Colonel Hcrrick reported in respect to the transport horses, but I am purchasing others to replace them. I regret that this additional expenditure should be necessary, but the post at Runanga must be held both for telegraph protection and also for general reasons, which you are already aware of and approve. The Native Force which was preparing to start for Taupo when I last wrote has since left. A body, which I now learn number 65 men, under Rcnata and Pene, went by way of Ngaruroro Gorge and Patca to support Hare Tauteka and the Patca Natives. Henarc Tomoana and Paora Kaiwhati, with 126 men, arc gone via Te Ilaroto and Runanga to the same destination. The men under Rcnata provided and carried their own supplies. Ilcnare Tomoana's men had supplies issued to them at Petane which they carried with them, and will receive further supplies at Te Haroto; but Hcnare thoroughlyundcrtands that he will have to carry on such supplies himself. When these men, who are all mounted, reach Hare Tauteka's pa, they will, with his men, make up a total force of 291 men. lam daily expecting to hear from Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, and will communicate at once with you by telegraph as to what movements may be considered possible or desirable to take against Tc Kooti.
Vide Appendix, 1869, A. 3e., p. 5.
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A.—No. BA.
From the latest accounts there is no reason to believe that Te Kooti has left Rotoaira, and I trust that the force at Runanga will be able at any rate to prevent him from returning to the Urewera country. I would urge that it is most important that the friendly Natives at Tapuaeharuru should be supported by a European force under a judicious officer. It is one of the keys to the centre of the country, and is well worth supporting. I would advise that fresh instructions should be sent to Lieut.-Colonel Harington to send Inspector Roberts and his division there at once, and that authority should be given to increase the transport horses sufficiently to enable him to keep them supplied from Tauranga and Maketu. When the Constabulary arc posted at Tapuaeharuru, the Arawa Contingent at present there, and who arc seemingly tired of their employment, could be dispensed with. 1 have, &c, The Hon. the Defence Minister, Wellington. J. D. Ormond.
No. 8. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Napier, 13th September, 1869. My reports upon Native and Defence movements have heretofore been made to the Honorable the Defence Minister, and my last communication to him was dated the 2nd instant. At that time, a considerable body of the Hawke's Bay Natives had started to support the friendly Natives of Taupo, who were threatened by Tc Kooti; a post at Runanga had at the same time been occupied by 130 Constabulary under Lieut.-Colonel Herrick with a similar object. Since that date I have kept the Hon. the Defence Minister fully informed by telegraph of all information that has reached me as to movements at Taupo and elsewhere. I will now endeavour to supply such fuller particulars as time will permit; but my time is very fully occupied, and my report must be necessarily hasty. On Monday evening, the 6th instant, Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell arrived here from Patca, having seen as he passed through that district the Patea, Wanganui, and Hawke's Bay Natives who were there assembled. He acquainted mc that the Patea Natives had fallen back before Te Kooti, but being reassured by the support of the Hawke's Bay Natives under Renata, then just arrived, they were about to advance again upon Taupo. The information he brought confirmed the report that Te Kooti was at Rotoaira, and had built pas there and at Tokano. I enclose a copy of the instructions which had been prepared for Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, prior to his coming to Napier, and which I handed to him for his guidance. I further directed him to return with all speed to Patea, to lead the Natives there assembled, to whom I accredited him; I also informed him of the position of Hcnarc Tomoana's force, and the necessity of supporting him as speedily as possible, by moving on Taupo. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell started back to Patca on Tuesday morning, and I fully anticipate the Patea force, numbering 150 men, would be at Taupo by Friday last, or Saturday at latest. I specially acquainted Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell with the desire of the Government that no advance should be made in pursuit of Te Kooti which would complicate matters with the W raikatos, and I am sure no such step will be taken ; —at the same time that I arranged the advance of the Patea force under Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, Henare Tomoana, with 160 men, was to move on South Taupo by way of Runanga and the shores of Taupo Lake; and he was promised support from Runanga, of such of the Constabulary as could be moved to assist him, should Te Kooti be still in that neighbourhood, and Lieut.-Colonel Herrick was instructed accordingly, and was to move to Henarc's. support, on hearing from him. Henare Tomoana moved in accordance with these arrangements, and reached Tauranga, a settlement on the south-east shore of Taupo Lake, on the Bth instant. By telegram received yesterday from Lieut.-Colonel Herrick from Runanga, I heard that he had received intelligence by way of Tapuaeharuru, that Te Kooti had attacked Henare at Tauranga on Thursday, the 9th September, with a force of one hundred foot, and eighty horse, afterwards supported by another hundred foot; but that Hcnarc had driven him back and killed three of his men, having two of his own men wounded, and that Tc Kooti had retreated to Tokano.' It was evident from this, that the Patea force under Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell had not reached Taupo, as the firing would have quickly brought them to Henarc's assistance. Lieut.Colonel Herrick also did not move with his force, as he awaited, as had been arranged, a direct messenger from Henare confirming Te Kooti's presence at Taupo; but from later information, it would appear that Henare was unable to send to Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, being hemmed in by the enemy, and that the reported retreat of Te Kooti was inaccurate. However this may be, the latest intelligence received brings information up to Saturday night, when heavy firing at Tauranga was heard at Tapuaeharuru, believed to have been a renewal of the attack upon Henare by Tc Kooti. The result of this engagement is not yet known, but I fear Henare was out-numbered, whilst I feel almost certain that Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell must have been in the vicinity of South Taupo on Saturday, and trust that he may have gone to Henare's assistance. Upon intelligence
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of the renewal of the attack reaching Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, he moved at once to support Henare, and will have reached Tauranga to-night with from fifty to sixty men of the Mounted Constabulary, and a supply of food and ammunition, No. 2 Division Constabulary following. By last night, also, a force of about seventy Natives would have arrived at Tauranga from Tapuaeharuru, so that I trust Henare was able to hold out until these supports reached him. Supposing all our forces have come together, as I believe they must before this, we shall have a strong force not far short of 500 men to act against Te Kooti; and unless he is backed by Waikato or Ngatimaniapoto, a contingency which I am inclined to think is not improbable, our men ought to give an account of him. Providing supplies is the greatest difficulty I have to encounter in the present operations. The friendly Natives are relying mainly on getting possession of the Rotoaira and Tokano settlements, where they know there is plenty of food, but which is at present in possession of Tc Kooti. I am doing all I can to keep up the supply of food, but the difficulties are enormous. The Hawke's Bay Natives arc in a state of great excitement at the late intelligence; messengers have been sent to-day to the inland settlements, telling the people to meet at Tarcha's pa on the Ahuriri plains, to be ready for any contingency that may arise; they insist that Te Kooti is supported by Waikato, and that we have heavy work before us at Taupo; they are in good spirits however, and ready to act as they may be desired. I shall advise you immediately by means of the telegraph, of any important information that may be received. I have, &c, The Hon. Colonial Secretary, Wellington. J. D. Ormond. Enclosure in No. 8. His Honor J. D. Ormond to Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell. Sir,— Napier, 6th September, 1869. You will have already received letters from me stating that the Hon. the Defence Minister has sanctioned my availing of your services, and requesting you to come to Tc Haroto to communicate with me. By letter from Hare Tautcka received this morning, I learn that you are at Patea. I also learn that Hare Tauteka's force has returned to Patea from Poutu, not feeling strong enough to hold their own : also that Te Kooti is reported to have fallen back towards Moerangi. I have first to inform you, that the Hon. the Defence Minister has approved my wish that you should have command of any operations that maybe undertaken against Te Kooti at Taupo. I have now to convey to you such information as may be necessary to acquaint you with what is being done, and what I wish you to do in furtherance of such operations. First, with regard to your own movements : upon receipt of this, move the whole Native force at Patea up to Taupo; you will be met there by 120 mounted Natives under Henare Tomoana and Paora Kaiwhata, who are at Runanga to-day, and move forward to Taupo tomorrow morning. They will also be accompanied by Paora Hapi's men. Henare has a good supply of ammunition with him, (eleven kegs). You will endeavour to ascertain Te Kooti's position, and any information you can as to his probable movements. Should you find Te Kooti in a position in which he can be attacked with advantage, it will be desirable if possible that you should communicate with Lieut.-Colonel Herrick at Runanga. There are 130 Constabulary at that post, who could be availed of in any general movements upon Te Kooti; and as we have all the canoes on Taupo Lake at Tapuaeharuru, in charge of Pohipi's people under Captain St. George,—the Constabulary, and also 100 Natives from Tapuaeharuru, could be landed by their means on the west side of the lake, starting from, say Hatcpc, to assist in any movements that may be practicable. It is of course impossible to convey absolutely definite instructions, much must depend upon what you find the state of things at Taupo. I must however impress upon you that it is essential that no move should be made at the present moment into the King's country that would complicate matters with the Waikatos. If Te Kooti has returned into their country, we must not at present follow him. I depend greatly upon your discretion and also upon your ability to act, should action be open to you. Supplies are being hastened up to Te Haroto for your Native force; however you will have to depend upon the resources of the Patea Natives. In the event of Te Kooti having retired, could you arrange for the permanent occupation of Rotoaira by a Native force, Government would, I think, be inclined to subsidize such an occupation if it were efficient. Keep up communication with me as regularly as possible; a trooper will be stationed at Messrs. Williams and Herrick's Native run, Ngaruroro Gorge, who will bring on despatches. Patea orderly will in all cases await reply before proceeding back. Expecting to hear from you shortly, I have, &c, J. D. Ormond, Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, General Government Agent, East Coast District. Patea.
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A.—No. 8
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No. 9. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ohmoxd. (Telegram). Wellington, 21st September, 1869. Your letter of 13th instant, upon Native and Defence matters, received and read by Ministers. The steps taken by you appear very judicious. W. Gisborne.
No. 10. The Acting Under Secretary for Defence to Lieut.-Colonel Harington. (No. 230-7.) Colonial Defence Office, Sir,— Wellington, 11th September, 1869. I have been desired by the Hon. the Defence Minister to instruct you to forward Inspector Roberts and his division of Armed Constabulary to Tapuaeharuru, Taupo Lake, there to remain until further orders. Mr. Ormond, the Government Agent at Napier, has offered to supply meat for Inspector Roberts' force via Napier, and will be instructed by this mail to do so; and the Defence Minister relies upon you to use your utmost exertions to provide the other necessary rations. It is of the utmost importance that this force should reach Tapuaeharuru at as early a date as possible, and you will be good enough to report the date on which it started for that place. I have, &c, St. John Branigan, Comr., A.C., Lieut.-Colonel Harington, Acting Under Secretary. Commanding Field Force, Tauranga. P.S.—You will please take steps to inform Mr. Ormond if any delay takes place in Inspector Roberts' departure; and if no delay occurs, you will inform Mr. Ormond of the date of the departure of the force, in order that he may arrange to supply the meat.—St. J. B.
No. 11. Lieut.-Colonel Harington to the Under Secretary for Defence. Sir,— Tauranga, 18th September, 1869. I havo the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. 230-7, 11th September. Major Roberts' division will march for Tapuaeharuru on the 20th instant, and Mr. Ormond will be informed at once of the probable date of their arrival. You may rely upon every exertion being made to keep the Native and European force supplied with necessary rations; but at the same time I beg leave to inform you that, up to the last few days, neither Mr. Clarke, Civil Commissioner, nor myself have been able to get any Natives to undertake the transport from Kaiteriria to Tapuaeharuru. Sub-Inspector O'Halloran (in charge of the transport) has had large supplies at Kaiteriria for the last week or more, but his horses could take them no further. I cannot purchase a sufficient number of horses here, and am now trying to arrange a contract with a European to pack from Kaiteriria to Tapuaeharuru, whilst the Government bullock dray and pack-horses convey the supplies to the former post. It was this difficulty that prevented my carrying out the former instructions of sending fifty men to Taupo. I have, &c, Philip Harington, Lieut.-Colonel, Commanding Field Force, Bay of Plenty District. The Acting Under Secretary, Defence Office.
No. 12. Lieut.-Colonel Harington to Under Secretary for Defence. Sir, — Tauranga, 21st September, 1869. I have the honor to inform you that Major Roberts' division (No. 6) of Armed Constabulary marched from here for Tapuaeharuru yesterday morning. At the last moment the Ngaiterangi Natives, who had promised to pack between Kaiteriria and Taupo, refused to go. Mr. Clarke, Civil Commissioner, has kindly offered to go to Rotorua to-day, and use his personal influence with the Natives of that district, to induce them to do the packing till other arrangements are made. I feel confident that after so many arrangements with Natives for transport, and so many failures, it is quite hopeless to place any dependence on them at all. I advertised here for tenders for packing supplies from Kaiteriria to Tapuaeharuru (as up to that point I can forward them with the Government bullock dray and pack-horses), and Mr. McPherson has undertaken to do it for 30s. per 100 lbs. 1 have consulted with Mr. Clarke, who thinks it. a fair price, as so much expense must be incurred in getting up oats for the horses, without which they are sure to break down. As I had just received the circular stating that " horses must be bought, and not hired," I did not like to accept a tender without authority; but, to save time, I have referred the matter with full explanation to Dr. Pollen. 4
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I also beg that you will bring to the notice of the Hon. Defence Minister that there will always be a considerable quantity of stores, and sometimes ammunition, at Kaiteriria, and that I therefore think it would be advisable to remove the detachment from Matata to Kaiteriria. It would be a support to the Tapuaeharuru garrison, and would give confidence to the people who were employed in packing up supplies. An escort could then be furnished with each convoy of horses, as the detachments could find men to go half-way between Kaiteriria and Tapuaeharuru from each place. There would be no difficulty in feeding the men, as Mr. McPherson has offered to supply them with meat at 7d. per lb., and the rest of the rations could be sent from here. I have, &c, Philip Harington, Lieut.-Colonel, Commanding Field Force, Bay of Plenty District. The Acting Under Secretary, Defence Office, Wellington.
No. 13. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Napier, 14th September, 1869. I have the honor to enclose for your information copy of a letter received last night from Mr. Deighton, the Resident Magistrate at the W rairoa, from which it would appear that the Urewera are moving about in the district at the back of the Wairoa. The Wairoa Settlement is as safe as the force at my disposal will enable me to- make it, and the people are on their guard. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. J. D. Ormond.
Enclosure in No. 13. The Resident Magistrate, W rairoa, to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir,— Te Wairoa, 10th September, 1869. I have the honor to report that fires were seen in the direction of the Kiwi and Onepoto, on Wednesday last, by a Mr. Brigham, who was out on Mr. Walker's run, and saw them from thence. The Natives here are all aware of the fact and on their guard. They have, I believe, written to the Hon. the Defence Minister, to have a few Maoris stationed at the Kopu Blockhouse. I have, &c, J. D. Ormond, Esq., General Government Agent, S. Deighton, R.M. Napier.
No. 11. The Under Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ormond. (No. 37.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Sir, — Wellington, 28th September, 1869. I have the honor, by direction of Mr. Gisborne, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the I4th instant, enclosing copy of a letter from the Resident Magistrate at the Wairoa, relative to the movements of the Urewera. I have, &c, A. C. P. MacdoNald The General Government Agent, Hawke's Bay. (for the Under Secretary).
No. 15. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir,— Napier, 20th September, 1869. The telegraph has kept the Government informed of all information that has reached me from Taupo as it arrived, and I have now only to send the official report of occurrences since my last letter. When I last wrote, information had been just received of a second attack upon Henare by Te Kooti, the result of which was not known, and in respect to which I felt great anxiety. On the 15th inst., I heard from Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, who was marching to join Henare, that he had met a messenger on the way coming from him, and that he was all right, and had repulsed Te Kooti's second attack. On the 16th, I again heard from Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, that he had joined Henare at Tauranga with the Mounted Division and 130 Natives from Tapuaeharuru, and that the whole force was to advance on Tokano, on that or the following day. Lieut.-Colonel Herrick explained that the cause of his not joining Henare sooner after hearing that he had been attacked, was, that on the night previous a horse belonging to an orderly who had gone with
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A.—No. 8,
Captain St. George to Tapuaeharuru had come into his camp riderless, and that fearing something was wrong he had sent a detachment of the Mounted Division to make inquiry; the absence of these men prevented Lieut.-Colonel Herrick from moving to Henarc's assistance immediately on hearing how he was pressed, which he would otherwise have done; as it was, he had to delay until the return of the mounted men. Henare naturally expressed surprise to Lieut.-Colonel Herrick at not having received support more quickly, but on his explaining the cause the Natives were satisfied. The manner in which Henare and the men under him have behaved deserves some notice from the Government. I enclose copy of a rough sketch made by Henare of his position and that of the enemy, from which it will be seen that he was hard pressed. Te Kooti cut off all Henare's horses, about 120 in number, of which only 40 odd have been recovered by the last accounts. Henare believes he killed eight of the enemy in the two engagements, having five of his own men wounded; only one body of the enemy was however left in possession of our forces, and that is said to be that of an Urewera chief. On the night of the 17th inst. I received a despatch from Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, dated Rotoaira, September, stating that he had reached that place on the 12th inst., with a part of the Patea force; that he had scouted in the direction of Tokano, and been fired upon by the enemy who were in possession of that place, by which the only road to South Taupo and Tauranga passed. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, who had only some seventy Natives with him, did not feel strong enough to attempt an attack, and consequently confined liimsclf to watching the enemy's movements, and building apa for the better security of his small force. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell did not hear the firing at Tauranga during the engagements with Henare ; this is accounted for by a southerly wind having been blowing at the time. A reference to Mr. Healc's map of Taupo will show that a post at Tokano completely holds the road from W rest to East Taupo; Tc Kooti was consequently, as long as he held Tokano, between Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell at Rotaira, and Lieut.-Colonel Herrick and Henare at Tauranga, and so prevented their joining. This example shows the value of Tokano as a position, and how effectually its possession cuts off all communication between West and East Taupo, whilst Rotoaira commands the road leading towards Upper W ranganui; the possession of these two posts commands, therefore, the communication between W raikato and Upper Wanganui, as well as the East Coast road by South Taupo. On the 14th Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell was joined by Wirihana and the remainder of the Patea force, and on that clay his scouts also ascertained that the enemy was abandoning Tokano and moving off in the direction of Moerangi, taking with him all the cattle belonging to the South Taupo Natives, and also the horses he had taken from Hcnarc. On the 18th I received a telegram from Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, by way of Runanga and Haroto, saying that our forces had joined on the 16th, and were at Tokano, but were intending to move after Te Kooti and endeavour to recover the cattle and horses he had taken off with him. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell does not state his force but it must have been 500 strong, I have already sent by telegram to the Hon. the Premier a copy of the instructions I sent to Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell on the evening of the 18th, which the force at his command would, I trust, enable him to carry out. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell's telegram states that the Natives with him were of opinion that Te Kooti would not attempt to return to Waikato. The foregoing is, I think, a summary of what has taken place since my last report. I think on the whole the position of things at Taupo is more encouraging than it was at that time, especially as regards the attitude of Waikato. Tc Kooti up to the present time has evidently not been supported by either Waikato or Ngatimaniapoto, or he would not have given, up Tokano and Rotoaira without a struggle. His force is probably 300 to 400 men, made up of his own. followers, the Taupo Hauhaus, and the Urewera. We know they are very short of ammunition; and were it not for the fear of complicating matters with the King party and Waikato, we could speedily give an account of him. As it is he is hemmed in between our forces and Waikato, and from the information received to-day through Dr. Pollen from W raikato (copy of which I sent this day by telegraph to the Hon. Defence Minister), he is doing his best to alienate all sympathy on their part from him. My own opinion is that he has retired to Tuhua, and will in all probability build apa there and make a stand. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell will reconnoitre his position with the mounted portion of his force, and endeavour to recover the cattle and horses taken from our allies. If it could be made plain to the Waikato that our sole object was to secure Te Kooti, they might acquiesce in our advancing into the W rest Taupo country for that purpose. If I were advised by you that a forward movement could be undertaken, I should propose to reinforce the present force at Taupo by 100 of the Constabulary now at Runanga before doing so ; this could be done at three days' notice at any time. Meanwhile Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell is instructed to erect defensible positions at Rotoaira and Tokano, and to get the Natives to go on jdanting food at those places. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. J. D. Ormond.
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No. 10. The Under Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir, — Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 27th September, 1869. I have the honor, by direction of Mr. Gisborne, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 20th instant, reporting on the occurrences at Taupo. I have, &c, The General Government Agent, Napier, A. C. P. Macdonald Hawke's Bay. (for the Under Secretary).
No. 17. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Napier, 20th September, 1869. I have the honor to enclose a copy of a letter received a few days since from Major Westrup, reporting that Hauhaus were believed to be in the district. This, coupled with similar information from Mr. Deighton, from Wairoa, which I informed you of in my letter of the 14th instant, shows that the Urewera arc moving about in the country behind Te W rairoa and Poverty Bay. The settlers and the Colonial forces at both these places are on their guard, and aware of the proximity of the enemy, so that I consider they are in no danger, as they have strong redoubts, and are quite able to hold their own against any force that is likely to be brought against them. I am inclined to think that the Poverty Bay District is much more likely to be visited by the enemy than Wairoa, and I purpose getting Ropata and the Ngatiporou, who are returning to their homes by the " St. Kilda," to call at Turanga on their way, in case of the Urewera having come down in strength, when they would land and render assistance. From the W rairoa, we should hear quickly if a raid were made upon the settlement. As the summer advances, the Urewera will no doubt recommence hostilities, and keep the East Coast in constant commotion. I feel satisfied that no security to life and property will exist for the East Coast settlements until the Urewera have been dealt with and punished, and I trust when the suitable season arrives, the Government will authorize me to organize an expedition to secure this end. Ropata and the Ngatiporou Tribe are alike ready for the work and convinced of its necessity, and will be the most suitable force to employ. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. J. I). Ormond.
No. 18. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ormond. (Telegram.) Wellington, 25th September, 1869. Your letter of the 20th instant, as to Urewcras threatening Wairoa and Poverty Bay Districts, received. You will, lam sure, take every precaution to prevent settlers and friendly Natives, in those districts being off their guard, and to secure, as far as possible, their safety. Steps taken by you approved. The General Government Agent, Napier. W. Gisborne.
No. 19. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Napier, 27th September, 1869. I have the honor to enclose copy of a Despatch, received this afternoon from Lieut.Colonel McDonnell, of an engagement that had taken place on the 25th instant, Saturday, at Taupo. In explanation of Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell's letter, I may state that Tokano, the position occupied by the force that was attacked by Te Kooti, was held by 249 Natives only, and that the remainder of the force was at Rotoaira, eight miles distant. Seeing that Te Kooti had, by Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell's estimate, 250 to 300 men with him, our Natives must have behaved well, as they were certainly not superior to him in number, and the defeat of the celebrated Tc Kooti by an equal number of Friendlics is, to say the least of it, an improvement •on what we have of late years been accustomed to. It will be seen by Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell's despatch that the Whanganuis, under Kemp, had not, up to that date, reached him; also that No. 2 Division, who were on the road, had also not then arrived. Both parties would, I trust, be up in time to take part in the proposed general attack which was to take place to-day. I hope to be able to report a more decided success by the next opportunity. 1 have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. J. D. Ormond.
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A.—No. 8.
Enclosure 1 in No. 19. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Poutou, 26th September, 1869. Te Kooti attacked Tokano from the hills yesterday, was driven back after determined resistance, rallied again and again repulsed with loss. Fight took place on the hills, above Tokano ; loss of enemy heavy. None killed on our side. Friendlies behaved bravely; particulars in despatch. Kemp, Wanganui, not yet arrived; Te Kooti not short of ammunition. I intend attacking-on Monday; No. 2 will have arrived. Tuos. McDonnell, His Honor J. D. Ormond. Lieut.-Colonel, Taupo.
Enclosure 2 in No. 19. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir, — Camp Poutou, 26th September, (;869. I have the honor to report, for the information of the Defence Minister, that on the morning of the 25th instant, about 10 a.m., the enemy appeared in force on the hills above Tokano, and commenced an attack on that position. I was on my way from here to Tokano, accompanied by an escort of 10 men, when the enemy fired into us on our left front, as wc ncared the Hauhau track leading up the hill, but putting our horses to a gallop we rode past and reached the friendly Natives, who commenced firing at the enemy; they had taken up four different positions half-way down the hills, and a strong body of the enemy was also in support, on a narrow fern ridge, between two densely wooded gullies, which ended at the edge of the bush on the summit of the hill; our men, under their several chiefs, after some sharp skirmishing, drove the enemy from the position they held back on their supports, leaving some of their killed and wounded in our hands. The enemy rallied again, and charged down on us with loud cries, but were met by Henare's people, who again repulsed them with loss, taking a rifle-pit on the top of the hill, from which a heavy fire had been maintained; this was rushed, and the enemy broke and fled, leaving three of their number behind. I called a halt here, as I did not wish to pursue the enemy through the bush on to the plains that day. Our men were tired and short of ammunition, and we could not have accomplished much of importance had wc gone on, and "would only have driven the enemy further than he now is, so I ordered the forces to return to camp. Wc learnt from a prisoner, who was taken the first part of the day, that Te Kooti led the attack in person, and had all his available men with him, about 250 to 300. They fought well and contested every inch of ground, carrying off their dead and wounded to the fern-ridge above them, until forced to break. The enemy is not so short of ammunition as is supposed; in one pouch taken by us, 40 rounds of Enfield ammunition and 60 caps were found; another had 30 rounds ; and I should say they fired over 2,000 rounds during the day. Six of the enemy fell into our hands and were left on the field, but there were many others who were carried away. I place their loss, killed and wounded, at over 30. I also append a list of our casualties, which are comparatively light. I have the honor to bring to the notice of the Government the energy displayed by Captain St. George; and by Lieut. Preecc, who was foremost in all that took place. The Chiefs Henare Tomoana, Paora Hapi, Hohepa Tamamutu, and others, are especially deserving of credit for the good example shown by them to their men. The whole of the friendlies are in high spirits; and if the weather will keep fine, I intend to attack Te Kooti on two sides on Monday. Kemp, with the AVanganuis, has not yet made his appearance, and I am at a loss to account for his •delay. I will not wait any longer. I omitted to mention that our forces engaged yesterday numbered 240 men. Since writing the above another body has been found, making a total of seven killed of the enemy that I am certain of. I have, &c, Tuos. McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel, Commanding Taupo Field Force. His Honor J. D. Ormond, Government Agent.
Enclosure 3 in No. 19. List of Wounded at Waipapa, 25th September, 1869. 1. Ngatikahungunu.—Wi Tako, gunshot wound left side, left lung injured, bullet lodged in left breast —extracting dangerous. 2. Pcra Pihuka, gunshot wound, entered upper third of left arm and lodged between the scapula;—bullet extracted ; severe. 3. Ilimiana, gunshot wound below right knee; slight. 4. Arawa. —Maniapoto, gunshot wound right side of chest, passing through the lung; ■ dangerous. 5. Henare Poihipi, gunshot wound through calf of left leg; slight. 6. Ngatikahungunu.—Matinga, gunshot wound right thigh; slight. J. Murray Gibbs, Assistant Surgeon. 5
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No. 20. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ormond. (No. 40.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Sir,— Wellington, 2nd October, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 27th ultimo, forwarding copy of report from Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell of an engagement between the friendly Natives under his direction, and a body of Hauhaus under Te Kooti, at Taupo, and to express to you the gratification of the Government at the gallant conduct of our forces, and at the success achieved. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond, W. Gisborne. Government Agent, Hawke's Bay.
No. 21. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Napier, 28th September, 1869. I have the honor to inform you that the " St. Kilda" returned here from the East Coast on the night of the 26th, having taken Ropata and the Ngatiporou to their homes, and having called at Wairoa and Poverty Bay upon the way. I am glad to be able to report that nothing further had occurred, either at W rairoa or Turanga, to the date of the steamer calling, to give rise to further apprehension that the Urewera were in the vicinity of either of these places, and that, at any rate, the utmost precaution was being taken to avoid surprise and obtain early information of any movement on the part of the enemy. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. J. D. Ormond.
No. 22. The Under Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ormond, Napier. (No. 42.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Sir,— Wellington, sth October, 1869. I have the honor, by direction of Mr. Gisborne, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 28th ultimo, on the subject of the state of Native affairs at W Tairoa and Turanga. I have, &c, A. C. P. Macdonald The General Government Agent, Napier. (for the Under Secretary).
No. 23. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. Dillon Bell. (Telegram.) Napier, sth October, 1869, 5.50 p.m. Until operations against Te Kooti were decided on the whole force on pay in my district, viz., to East Cape, and including Taupo, was as follows : —Poverty Bay, fifty Militia and Volunteers. I have recommended Mr. McLean to send fifty Constabulary from Tauranga to take their place. This will save fifty men's pay. Wairoa, sixty-five men, all Constabulary Force, from here to Runanga. Taupo, 232 Constabulary, holding posts, checking Urewera, and protecting telegraph line. These men were to have been employed on road to Taupo. Total in my district, 347 on pay. Considering the extent and difficulties to meet, this force is small enough. Te Kooti's presence in Taupo, backed by Rewi and Te Heuhcu, compelled action. His supremacy there was partly achieved by defection of Tc Heuhcu, and required promptly meeting, or entire Taupo would have gone over, and Tc Kooti's influence have extended to Waikato and surrounding country. Another fortnight and centre of Island would have been in Te Kooti's hands, and Waikato and Ngatimaniapoto would have backed him. One success would have done it. Rewi accompanied him to be witness of his power, and left him on his defeat by Henare at Tauranga. The Taupo friendlies appealed for help, and said they could not hold out without it; that unless supported, they must join Te Kooti or be killed. Ministers decided to support them, and authorized me to employ the only force available—friendly Natives. The force I collected was as follows : — Ngatikahungunu, 220; Arawa, 50 ; W ranganui, 40. The two latter are on regular pay. Arawa were before. Ngatikahungunu, I raised no question of pay with. To-day I discussed question with Karaitiana, the chief who sent them. He at once consented to leave the whole question of pay with me, but said the men had gone expecting something. I can settle with these people by bonus according to work done. Nothing can be better than the way these people have behaved throughout. They must not be treated shabbily. In addition to Native force named, there are eighty Tapuaeharuru Natives, and fifty of Hare Tauteka's men. Ido not propose topay them. If wc give them some food and clothes, it is all they can expect. We have gone to
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their assistance. Total Native force, 440. This is whole force I have taken on to meet Te Kooti. 100 Constabulary are at Tokano, and makes total of 550 men. The remainder of the Constabulary are barely enough to hold posts and convey provisions. I venture to say a force 130 miles off has never before been supplied from so weak a base. Indeed it is too weak, and is risking a great deal, the whole line being on the confine of the Urewera country and liable to attack. Further force have gone to Taupo, but I did not ask them. Kemp and the Wanganuis I know nothing of. They had not reached Taupo last Thursday. Tareha sent eighty men to Taupo on Saturday, but I refused to sanction their going, or to find them pay or food. The results so far are known. Te Kooti has lost prestige, been beaten twice, and Rewi has left him. Waikato and West Taupo look on to see result, and on that result very much, I believe, depends. Taupo is held, and very shortly Te Kooti will either be smashed or have to bolt. Expenditure can then be reduced at once; but I think cost of this expedition is over-estimated. The transport is enormously difficult and expensive, but I carry little there except biscuit and groceries. Meat is driven there, and potatoes are largely used. The utmost economy is practised, and every detail seen to by myself. I will append statement of actual payments in months July, August, and September. I expect every day to hear of definite action between our forces and Te Kooti. Government must remember that every step has been taken with possibility that Te Kooti might receive active support from Waikato. With regard to possible reductions in my district, the whole Native force, except fifty men for part garrison for Tokano and Rotoaira, can be dispensed with directly Te Kooti is dealt with. The European force will be required and their labour made use of in road-making. There is no excess of officers. Ten, I think, is the total of Constabulary officers. There is no waste of money in that respect in my district. I will now give actual payments during last three months :—■ First payment of liabilities incurred up to 30th June, 1869, month July .. .. " •. .. .. £12,787 Pay .". .. .. .. .. .. 3,267 Vouchers authorized—month August, pay .. .. 1,773 Vouchers .. .. . . .. .. .. 7,719 September, pay .. .. . . .. .. 144 Vouchers .. .. .. .. .. .. 2,153 Total pay, Europeans and Natives past liabilities .. .. 14,705 Total authorized vouchers—past liabilities, ... .. 13,140 Payment made on ordinary expenditure incurred since Ist July, 1869, month July, pay .. .. .. .. 3,142 Vouchers .. ' .. . . . . .. .. 378 August, pay . . .. .. .. .. .. 1,447 Vouchers .. . . . . .. .. .. 742 September, pay .. . . . . .. .. 449 Vouchers .. . . .. .. .. .. 482 Total, pay .. .. .. .. .. 5,038 Vouchers .. . . . . .. .. .. 1,602 The Constabulary are now being paid for past two months, and are not included. These figures. are as near as I can obtain from Paymaster's office. The Hon. Dillon Bell, Wellington. Ormond.
No. 21. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Napier, 6th October, 1869. In consequence of telegrams received from the Hon. Mr. Bell, I yesterday made a sort of report on the Taupo operations by telegraph, in order that Ministers might have some information on the subject before considering it in Cabinet. My telegram conveyed pretty accurately the causes which led to the Taupo expedition against Tc Kooti being undertaken, and what, in my opinion, has been effected by the operations up to now. There can be no doubt that, unless Te Kooti had been checked, the whole of the centre of the Island would have got into his hands. The friendlies were in a miserable minority, and could only have saved themselves by joining him. Had he obtained the control of Taupo, he would, in all probability, have received the support of the Waikatos and Ngatimaniapoto, as well as have been in a position to open communication with the Upper Wanganuis and the Urewera, and the result it is needless to point out. The steps taken against him have stopped nearly all this. In the first place, I now have information that Rewi accompanied Te Kooti for the purpose of seeing him exhibit his power at Taupo before pledging to support him, and instead, saw him defeated and foiled. I hear that Rewi, immediately after Te Kooti's defeat at Tauranga, returned to W raikato and proclaimed him an impostor. Then, he has been checked in his communications with the Upper Wanganui Natives; although I believe he has obtained the support of Topini's hapu, from the very head of that river, consisting of some seventy men. Next, the Taupo Natives have only part of them joined him, the main body hanging back and watching
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the result of the operations against him. From the chief Poihipi, Mr. Locke gathered that these people view Te Kooti now as defeated, and that it only requires him to be driven from Taupo for them to take decided part with the Government, and in future assist in maintaining the peace of the Taupo District. 1 have in a former letter expressed my opinion that they will readily take road work, and may in that way be usefully and peacefully employed. Te Kooti has also been prevented from returning to the Urewera country; and although Ido not believe his absence will affect the hostility of that tribe, yet if he can be dealt with separately, it will make it much easier to deal with them than if they had his support. It remains yet to be seen whether wc can inflict a heavy blow upon Te Kooti where he now is. A very few days will decide this; but in any case I should trust that the Government will retain its hold upon Taupo, and so support the resident Natives as to ensure them from being forced into a hostile attitude to us. I should not for a moment propose to the Government to retain a large force of Natives on pay for this purpose. I believe, by occupying Tokano and Rotoaira with 100 men, partly Native and partly European, and also by keeping a party of Constabulary at Tapuaeharuru to countenance the friendly Natives there, that we could hold Taupo against any force Te Kooti could bring against us, particularly if we kept command of the lake, by which means we could keep up communication between Tokano and Tapuaeharuru; and in the event of either of these positions being threatened, the force at either place could assist the other. In addition to this, I think the Ngatikahungunu would require very little pressing to induce them to occupy some of the country they are conquering. I dwell very much upon the occupation of Taupo, because I feel assured it is the step to secure the permanent peace of the country, and that so long as the centre of the Island is a refuge for disaffection, so long shall we have trouble. Could we retain our hold there for the coming summer, and expend a portion of the road vote in opening the roads to the Bay of Plenty and Napier, we should be able to so improve the means of communication as to cause the present great difficulty and expense, viz. the transport, to be an easy and comparatively inexpensive matter. I would therefore urgently submit, that whatever reductions in Defence expenditure may be necessary, our present footing at Taupo should be held, and every effort made to secure the co-operation and support of the resident Natives. W rith possession of Taupo, we interpose between Waikato, and the W Tanganui and Manawatu King Natives ; we cut off the communication between the King party and the Urewera, and our location there ends practically the supremacy of the Maori King. Another advantage of possession of Taupo is, that it will enable the reported gold fields at Kaimanawa to be tested; and should it prove a success, it is unnecessary to dwell upon the effect it will have. W rith regard to the Defence expenditure in the district included in this Agency, I have pointed out in my telegram to Mr. Bell, that prior to the operations against Te Kooti the force at my disposal was small enough for the work that it was necessary should be done; and I may add, that it cannot possibly be reduced whilst the Urewera remain in their present position and hostile attitude. After deducting the garrisons that protect Poverty Bay and the Wairoa, the force numbers about 230 men, and with them I have to protect the frontier of this Province and the telegraph line to Taupo, which entails the holding several posts on the line, all of them in difficult country, and within the boundaries of the Urewera. At the present moment, I have 100 men out of this number acting with the Natives against Te Kooti at Tokano; but I am obliged to report that in consequence I have great anxiety for the safety of the posts and the transport to the front, which might at any moment be cut off by an attack from the Urewera country, and I have to admit that great risks are run. The only reductions that arc possible are with the Native forces employed; and I have fully explained in the telegram before referred to, that directly Te Kooti is dealt with, nearly the whole of that force can be put off pay. At the present moment, it is larger than I ever intended; Ministers thought it better to send up Kemp and the Wanganuis, which nearly doubles the Native force on pay. The Arawa who are employed were promised pay, I believe, by Mr. Commissioner Clarke; and the Wanganuis under Wirihana, forty or thereabouts, I authorized Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell to place on pay. With regard to the Ngatikahungunu, who form the greater body of the force, no question of pay was raised by them. I desired them to go, and they went. Yesterday for the first time I opened the question with Karaitiana Tomoana, and his reply was that it rested in my hands, but that he knew his men thought they would receive remuneration. I told him that the Government desired to establish a system of paying Native forces by bonus on the actual work performed, and that I proposed to leave the question of pay to his people open until their return, when himself and his brother Henare, the chief in charge of the fighting party, could discuss the subject with me. To this he assented, and I must ask the Government to leave me to act as circumstances will allow. I have every hope that I shall be able to arrange a settlement satisfactory to the Government; but these Natives have behaved so well, that lam sure it would not be wished but that they should receive fair consideration. A further force of about eighty men, of Tareha's section of the tribe, left on Saturday for Taupo. I did not wish these men to go, as I looked on the operations as likely to be closed before they could get there, and accordingly I refused Tareha both arms and food. Owing,. however, to jealous)' of Henare Tomoana, he insisted on. sending the men, and bought food to take them there. Of course, when they get there they will increase the difficulty of supply, and I certainly shall not entertain any claim from them for pay.
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A.—No. 8,
I have forgotten to mention that I believe a further party of the Arawa, about fifty in number, have reached Tapuaeharuru, and will increase the number of men on pay. As I have before stated, all that portion of the force can shortly be dispensed with. I have written this letter with the desire of thoroughly acquainting Ministers with the particulars of the Taupo expedition, its object and result; and I trust shortly to be able to add other results —a satisfactory engagement with Te Kooti's forces. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary. J. D. Ormond.
No. 25. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary to His Honor J. D. Ormond, (No. 46.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Sir,— Wellington, 14th October, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 6th instant, reporting on the Taupo expedition, and to state that the Government quite agree in the views expressed by you, and in the steps you have taken in the matter, and are of opinion that the greatest credit is due to you for the judgment and energy you have shown in the discharge of very arduous and responsible duties. I have, &c, The General Government Agent, Napier. W. Gisborne.
No. 26. Mr. It. W. Woon to the Under Secretary, Native Department. Resident Magistrate's Court, Wanganui, Sir,— 6th October, 1869. I have the honor to report the receipt of the following items of intelligence from Native sources. Hoani Ngapuhi of Putiki has returned from Te Kooti's pa at Taupo, whither he went to fetch his wife, and has brought a letter from Te Kooti to Kemp and others, calling upon them not to go to Taupo to fight against him, but to leave him to fight it out with the Ngatikahungunu and Arawa, threatening at the same time if the Wanganui Natives do not withdraw from the contest he will make a raid down the Wanganui River. Te Kooti admits five killed on his side at the fight at Tokanu, one of whom was his own brother, who was standing by his side when he was shot dead. Pehi's own brother, Wiari, and some seven others, have gone to see Te Kooti, to find out what his movements are likely to be, and Pehi is reported to have said that he has no objection to the Wanganui Government Natives going to fight Te Kooti, so soon as his Natives return. Wiari, Pehi's brother, is a fighting character, and I am afraid, being a Hauhau, he is very likely to join Te Kooti with his party, at least for a time. I trust the Upper Wanganui Natives will not aid Te Kooti to any extent; but I must confess I have my doubts, and they require being narrowly watched. Mete Kingi has gone on from Ranana to Ohinemutu to see Pehi, and on his return I may elicit some more information respecting the intentions of the W ranganui Hauhaus. Topia Turoa is still at Waikato; 120 more W ranganui Natives were to start to-day from Itanana as a reinforcement to Kemp, who has gone on to Taupo. I have, &c, G. S. Cooper, Esq., Under Secretary, Richard W. Woon, Wellington. Clerk to Bench, and Interpreter.
No. 27. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Napier, 7th October, 1869. Colonel Herrick has come to Haroto; from him I gather the following particulars. The fight did not take place at Iwituaroa, but on the west side of Tongariro, and on the west side of the Wanganui River, at a place called Pourere. The enemy were in the redoubt. Our force rushed it, led by Ngatihau and Arawa, supported by No. 2 Constabulary and other Natives, and killed thirty-seven of the enemy. Twenty women and children, and one man of Taupo were taken prisoners. It is not known where the enemy retreated to. It was in a dense bush and raining hard when the engagement took place, and our Natives did not follow up. Renata, from here, had his eye gouged out by a Hauhau woman. Te Heuheu's wife had come into our camp, and Te Heuhcu with his tribe, were to come in next day, and give themselves up. McDonnell would hear from them the position of the enemy, and follow him up. Evidently the country is all bush, and very difficult. Poor St. George was killed; his Natives led the attack. The force has plenty of potatoes, and the Natives are at a place called Papakai. Should the Taupo Natives come in as expected, Te Kooti's force will be largely reduced, and, from my instructions, I am 6
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sure McDonnell and the Natives will follow him, and account for him if possible. Our forces seemed to have behaved splendidly. Te Kooti, it now seems, was in the redoubt, and escaped. McDonnell's despatch will be telegraphed to-morrow. He and his force deserve every praise. Ormond.
No. 28. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Premier. (Telegram.) Napier, Bth October, 1869. I send you Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell's despatch in full, and congratulate the Government on one of the most complete successes we have had. I should like to hear from you what course you decide shall be pursued with Te Heuhcu and his tribe, who, it seems, are certain to surrender themselves. This engagement secures peace to Taupo, and opens Kai manawa, which can now be tested. Ormond.
Enclosure in No. 28. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir, — Camp Poutou, sth October, 1869. I have the honor to state, for the information of the Government, that on Saturday, the Ist instant, I left this post, accompanied by the Mounted Constabulary under Sub-Inspectors Richardson and Handley, to join the Arawa and No. 2 Division Armed Constabulary at Kotukutuku, leaving instructions with Major Kemp, Captain McDonnell, and the other chiefs, to march from here on Sunday night, and join me at Papakai. On Monday morning the two forces joined at Papakai. The enemy were plainly visible about two miles further on, having built a redoubt on the edge of the bush, in a strong commanding position. At Papakai the force halted for breakfast; but a short time was allowed for this necessary meal, as word was brought in from our outlying sentries that the enemy was moving out to attack. On receipt of this intelligence I ordered Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, with No. 2 A.C., Major Kemp, with Captains McDonnell and Wlrihana, and Hare Tauteka's men, to advance and take possession of the range on the left flank, whilst I moved out with the Ngatikahungunu and Arawa on the right, the Mounted Division bringing up the rear. The whole force advanced in this order for about a mile. Kemp's party came into contact with the enemy's skirmishers, who were now in position about half a mile in front of the redoubt, and quickly dislodged them, following them up wildly, and driving them back on their main position in confusion, and with some loss. The Ngatikahungunu and the Arawa were also successful in forcing the enemy to evacuate a small earthwork, used most probably as a picket station, and some broken ground on the opposite bank of the Wanganui, where several of the enemy fell. Our natives, stimulated with jealousy of each other, were ripe for anything, and advanced with a steadiness and determination such as I have never seen equalled. The Wanganuis set the example, by charging up the face of the hill on which stood the redoubt, closely followed by the Ngatikahungunu and Arawa. Though exposed to the galling fire of the enemy, who fought well, they had in a short time taken the trenches by the front and right of the redoubt, undermining the parapet, jumping up and firing into it. I deeply regret to state that Captain St. George was killed within a short distance of the redoubt, whilst charging with No. 2 Division and the Arawa. Shortly after this charge the redoubt was taken by storm,, in which we lost three men killed and three wounded. Twenty-seven bodies of the enemy were found inside the redoubt and in the trench, and ten more bodies were found in the field,making a total loss on their side of thirty-seven as seen by us. Over twenty women and children were taken prisoners, and one man belonging to Taupo. I regret to say that Te Kooti escaped, as I know for certain that he was in the pa. Some of the women are severely wounded. I have much pleasure in testifying to the gallantry displayed by No. 2 Division Armed Constabulary, under the command of Sub-Inspectors Scannell and Northcroft, and also to Major Kemp and Captains McDonnell and Wirihana, and the Wanganui Natives under their command, who in this, as mx every former occasion, behaved admirably. My thanks are also due to Rcnata and Henare Tomoana of the Ngatikahungunu, and Hohcpa Tamamutu, Paora Hapi, and Kcpa of the Arawa, for the courage displayed by them in leading on their men. My thanks are more especially due to Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, for the able assistance which he rendered to me during the day in the furtherance of my plans. The Cavalry succeeded in recapturing a large number of the horses taken by Te Kooti from Henare Tomoana, at Tauranga, some time since. I sent a force out this morning under Henare Tomoana, to try and find out the present position of the enemy. I have brought No. 2 Division here, as our rear is open, and I fear that Te Kooti may attempt to escape in that direction. I have also come down myself for the purpose of getting more ammunition, and intend returning to Papakai to-morrow. I append a list of our killed and wounded. Te Heu Heu and Matuahu have sent me word to-day that they have had enough of it, and have left Te Kooti, and will surrender themselves to-morrow. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond. Thos. McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel.
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List of Killed and Wounded at Pourere, 4th October, 1869. Killed. Captain St. George, gunshot wound through the head. Ensign Winiata, gunshot wound through the head (Wanganui Contingent). Ensign Komene, gunshot wound through the chest (Ehaua Contingent). Private Tape, gunshot wound through the head (W ranganui Contingent). Wounded. Lieutenant Turei (Whanganui Contingent), gunshot wound through chest; dangerous. Renata (Chief, Ngatikahungunu), injured eye. Hori (Ngatikahungunu), gunshot wound in ear; slight. Ngatikahungunu, gunshot wound in arm ; severe. Total —Killed, four ; wounded, four. J. Murray Gibbs, Assistant Surgeon.
No. 29. Major Kemp to Meti King, M.H.R. Poutu, 7th October, 1869. To Meti Kingi, to Matai, to Kawana Paipai, to Haimona Te Aooterangi, to Hakaraia Moreb.ua. A notice to you. On the third day, in the afternoon, we attacked at 3 o'clock. The tribes comprising the attacking party were —Whanganui, 112; Ngatikahungunu, 130; Paneiri, 100; Te Arawa, Taupo, 100 ; Europeans, 100. On Monday morning, at 8 o'clock, we reached Papakai; at 11 o'clock the Hauhaus attacked; Ngatikahungunu, Te Arawa, Taupo, and the Troopers formed the main advance; Whanganui and Ngatiteupokoiri made a flank movement. When the advance got close up the flank party attacked ; the enemy, seeing that we were advancing to attack, fired a volley at us. Whanganui and Te Paneiri paid no heed to it but went right on; when close up we fired a volley, and the enemy retreated. Winiata Pakiro, made a rush and killed the first man, Te Mano ; Ngatiteupokoiri made a rush and killed Te Tapiri. The enemy retreated to their pa. Then all the parties advanced, and on nearing the pa, Whanganui with Tc Wirihana and his relatives separated to attack Heuheu's pa; while Turei and his relatives, Tukurangi, Apcraniko, Te Wikirini, Rio, Hori Kerei, and Te Wenerei Ngamanako. All the roads were filled. Then all the W^hanganui parties yelled. .Then the fence was rushed; Wenerei Ngamanako jumped up and killed Te Waka Rurupuko on the fence. Then the enemy fired and killed Winiata Pakero; they fired again and killed Pape; they fired again and hit Turei Karatau; he was struck below the neck and is still living. Of Te Arawa, one was killed; then the pa was rushed, Te Wiki jumped up and shot a Hauhau dead. In about a minute they were lying as thick as a heap of sharks. Thirty of the enemy fell—including prisoners saved alive, seventy. The chief whose life was spared was Wiripo Tohiraukura. The last man killed was Tarci, a, son of Tc Papo, he was killed by Kingi Tc Patuotu. Of the Europeans, Captain George was killed. Three of us the Maoris were killed, and the European makes four. Sufficient. Major Kepa Te Taitokokiteuru.
No. 30. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Premier. To William Fox, Esq., Wellington,— Napier, 13th October, 1869. Despatch received from McDonnell, dated 9th October, reports surrender of Te Heuheu with his uncle and a few followers. Information obtained from Te Heuhcu is attached. I have already directail McDonnell to send Te Heuheu down here, and he is probably on his way by this time. I shall send word now to McDonnell to accept of course the surrender of Matuahu and the rest of the Taupo people, and to inform them that the Government are disposed to deal leniently with them, but must have pledges of their good faith in the future. Our forces have gone after Te Kooti, and I hope we may have an account of him very shortly. The Hakaraia referred to is, I conclude, the troublesome Upper Waikato man. I have, &c, Ormond.
Enclosure in No. 30. To Mr. Ormond, —- Te Hcuheu's Speech in answer to the Chiefs of Ngatituwharctoa. " I have little to say, bad tribe: it was you who made the raid into the Urewera country, and afterwards left me as food for Te Kooti. I was left alone and forsaken by you. When I got to Tauranga I heard of the man who was killed. I then got frightened. Te Kooti came; when I got back I was taken prisoner. I have been such ever since. I have fought
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against you, but what was Itodo ? I was a prisoner. I blame you for my misfortune. However, I have nothing more to say. Te Kooti is here in the bush :go and find him." Te Heuheu's answer to Major Kemp's speech. " I agree with most of what you have said. If you wish to send me to gaol or the Chatham Islands, well and good. All you have done is fair. I have nothing to say against you, but I do blame Hohcpa Tamamutu; and had he led the charge on my pa, I should have aimed at him and shot him, as he is the sole cause of my misfortune. I have nothing more to say. Your words are good." Te Heuhcu gives the following information": —That Te Kooti stopped in the pa till just before it was taken, when as he was putting his hand into his waistcoat pocket for caps he was struck by a bullet which wounded his thumb and second finger, and cutting the third finger completely off, and also passing through the fleshy part of his side, and that if we had followed them up in the creek, instead of the track, he would have been caught, as he had no gun, and was going slowly, owing to the pain of his hand. Rerehi, Te Heuheu's uncle, left the pa with Te Kooti. That Te Kooti has with him 40 or 50 Chatham people and 50 Ureweras, including most of the Urewera chiefs, namely, Te W Taru, Paerau, Hapurona Poke, Hamiora (chief of Ahikereru), Te Makarini, Rakuraku, and Te Kercru. That Te Whenuanui was left with Te Waru's men and the rest of Te Urewera to defend Waikare-Moana. That this is the total of Te Kooti's force now. Chatham Island men suffered severely in late fight. Matuahu has gone towards Tuhua, for the purpose of collecting his women and children. Heuheu thinks Tc Kooti is at Whakapapa. Hakaraia and the Patetere people are said to be on their way to join him. He (Te Kooti) received a letter to that effect. This is all the information worth anything. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond. Thos. McDonnell.
No. 31. His Honor J. D. Ormond to Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell. Napier, 13th October, 1869. Despatch reporting surrender of Te Heuheu received, and very glad to hear it; very much decreases our complications at Taupo. Endeavour to get Matuahu in, and the rest of the Taupo Natives. I enclose what I wish said to them. You have already heard from me that Tc Heuheu had better come here, and I think so still; of course take care he is securely looked after, and send with him a few of the principal Taupo prisoners. I see gladly that you were getting ready for going after Te Kooti, and sincerely trust you will succeed in giving an account of him. In case there is any trouble still about the woman, Te W raru's sister, send her down with Te Heuheu; perhaps that is the best way of settling the dispute. Washing you success, and that next news will bring word of Te Kooti's being finished. Tell our Natives wc must have no differences among them about prisoners. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, Haroto and Taupo. Ormond.
Enclosure in No. 31. His Honor J. D. Ormond to Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell. Napier, 13th October, 1869. Say to Te Heuheu, and the Taupo Natives who have been in arms against us, that the Government is glad that their surrender has taken place before they have placed themselves in the same position as Te Kooti's band. That the Government desires Tc Heuheu, and those who have come in, to send to their friends, not yet surrendered, to follow their example quickly; that the Government is inclined to deal leniently with them, but cannot overlook what they have done; 4hat their principal men are to come down here, and be informed of the determination the Government have come to respecting them, and that the Government mean to take a substantial pledge from them to ensure good behaviour in the future. Meantime the people are to remain under your charge until their chiefs return. Of course they feed themselves. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, Haroto and Taupo. Ormond.
No 32. The Hon. the Premier to His Honor J. D. Ormond. (Telegram.) Wellington, 14th October, 1869. Very glad indeed to hear of Te Heuheu's surrender. Can you suggest anything as to terms and disposal of him ? I think he ought to give land at Taupo for a small settlement and redoubt, and pledge himself to assist in road-making. I really believe, to some extent, his excuse is true about Tc Kooti forcing him into joining him. Do not do anything that will
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degrade him, as I look on him as a probable ally of considerable importance in future operations at Taupo. He ought, I think, to be put under surveillance of some Napier Natives, but not put in prison. But you are on the spot and can judge best. His Honor J. D. Ormond. W. Fox, Premier.
No. 33. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir,— Napier, 18th October, 1869. I have the honor to enclose copy of a communication from Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, containing information received from Te Heuheu and other prisoners. I telegraphed this information to the Hon. the Premier upon its receipt. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, J. D. Ormond. Wellington.
Enclosure in No. 33. Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir, — Camp Poutu, 9th October, 1869. I have the honor to state, for the information of the Government, that on Wednesday, the 6th instant, Te Heuheu sent his wife and his two children with a message in reply to a note I had sent him desiring him to come in with his people. The message was to the effect that he wished to collect his people together first. I wrote again, and told him he must come in immediately, and meet at Kotukutuku and bring in his arms with him, or take the consequences. I then rode over to Tokanu and desired Sub-Inspector Scanned to march No. 2 Division Armed Constabulary over the hill to Kotukutuku and join the Arawas, who were camped there. I also sent to Tapuaeharuru for more ammunition. I returned to this camp the same morning. The following day I went to Kotukutuku, leaving orders with Major Kemp, commanding Wanganuis, and with Sub-Inspector Handley, to follow me; the troopers to march on foot without their horses. This order was cheerfully obeyed. The reason I had for collecting this force at Kotukutuku was that, in the event of Te Heuheu not coming in during the day, I would march to attack him at daylight next morning. However, about 6 p.m., Te Heuheu arrived, and surrendered with his uncle and a few followers. I had their arms taken from them, and after a few questions handed them over to Paora Hapi, who elicited some important information, which I have the honor to enclose. The Arawas and the Wanganuis are ready to start in search of Te Kooti, and I have come over to this camp to see Henare Tomoana about going out with his people. I would be glad to know what the Government wish us to do with those Natives who have come in; none of Te Kooti's people are with them. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond. Tuos. McDonnell.
No. 31. The Hon. the Premier to His Honor J. D. Ormond. (Telegram.) Wellington, 18th October, 1869. Received Colonel McDonnell's Despatch—the results most satisfactory. The Government cannot express too strongly the sense of its obligations to yourself for your able direction of these movements, to which, under Providence, they attribute their success. I have already sent congratulations to Colonel McDonnell and the forces, but you will please now to forward the formal thanks of the Government to Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel Herrick, Sub-Inspectors Scanned, Northcroft, Major Kemp, Captains McDonnell, and W Tirihana, Renata, Henare Tomoana, Hohepa Tamamutu, Paora Hapi, Kepa, of the Arawas, and all the officers and men of the forces engaged, for their admirable conduct and distinguished bravery on this occasion. The loss of Captain St. George will no doubt be as deeply regretted by the brave men whom he led and by his companions in arms as it is by this Government. The Government regrets to hear of the injury to Renata, and sympathises with the sufferers by the various casualties. We are very glad to hear that Te Heuheu and party have come in. From what we know of this young Native, and the circumstances under which he joined Te Kooti, we are inclined to deal very leniently with him—how far, will depend partly on his conduct in reference to Te Kooti now. He ought to assist in your attempt to capture him, which his local knowledge must enable him to do. His Honor J. D. Ormond, Esq. William Fox, Premier.
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• No. 35. The Hon. the Defence Minister to His Honor J. D. Ormond. 'Sir,— Auckland, 27th October, 1869. I have the honor to transmit for your information and guidance two Memoranda, indicating, as far as it is possible for me at present to form an opinion, the course which should be pursued with reference to the Taupo chief Tc Heuheu. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond, Donald McLean. General Government Agent, Napier.
Enclosure 1 in No 35. Memorandum for His Honor J. D. Ormond. Auckland, 27th October, 1869. I am unable, without further information, to express a definite opinion as to what should be done with Tc Heuhcu beyond placing him under the care of Karaitiana till a Court of Inquiry is held to decide as to his innocence or complicity with Te Kooti. I do not think that it would be judicious or politic to confiscate any of Te Heuheu's land, nor do I consider, as far as I know of the case, that such a course would be attended with good results. In the first place, Te Heuheu's personal possessions are very small, and so much mixed up with the land of friendly Natives, that the trouble of getting a clear title would be greater than the cost of acquiring such land at Taupo as may be necessary for settlement. I believe that the members of the Cabinet are agreed that the confiscation policy, as a whole, has been an expensive mistake. I am clearly of opinion that cession, in all cases whore land is required, is the most politic and satisfactory mode of acquiring territory for the purposes of Government, as it will not require a standing army to maintain possession. Te Heuheu should bind himself to co-operate in opening the Taupo country by means of roads and extension of telegraph, and perform, in conjunction with other chiefs of the district, such military duties as may be required of him. Beyond this, as at present informed, I see no end to be gained by inflicting any punishment, while a good deal may be effected through Te Heuheu, in controlling events both at Taupo and Waikato, and any attempt to degrade him in the eyes of the Natives should be avoided, as it would greatly diminish his influence for good. I believe Te Heuheu to be weak and vain, but not by any means a badly disposed chief; and he is one to whom the Government should, consistently with its duty to the friendly Natives, extend its clemency as far as possible. Te Heuhcu appears to have given information of great value to the Government. The Imperial Government, to which the Colony is applying for assistance, is decidedly averse to a confiscation policy, and I believe the sooner it is abandoned in our dealings with the Natives of this Island the better for all parties concerned, as the loss of such acquisition, even on economic grounds, is always vastly greater than the gain. Donald McLean.
Enclosure 2 in No. 36. The Hon. the Defence Minister to His Honor J. D. Ormond. The Case of Te Heuheu, — Auckland, 27th October, 1869. I propose that a Court of Inquiry, composed of Europeans and Natives, (chiefs,) should be held at Napier, to institute a careful investigation of Te Heuheu's case, and that the Court, after due inquiry and examination of Te Heuheu, and such witnesses as can be procured, should report on the following points : — Ist. If Tc Heuheu joined Te Kooti of his own accord. 2nd. If not, was he pressed by Tc Kooti to do so, and under what circumstances ? 3rd. Did he take any part in fighting against the Government ? 4th. If so, what course would the Court recommend the Government to take respecting him ? A member of the Court should be elected chairman, who should conduct the investigation, and report proceedings to the Government for final decision. Mr. Ormond will be better able to decide on the spot as to the number of European gentlemen and Native chiefs necessary to constitute a Court of Inquiry. In selecting the Native chiefs, it would be advisable to have men representing different shades of opinion on questions affecting their race. His Honor J. D. Ormond. Donald McLean.
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No. 36. The Hon. the Defence Minister to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir,— Auckland, 27th October, 1869. ' Owing to my absence at Kaipara, I have been deprived of an earlier opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of your several important despatches relating to military operations at Taupo. The skilful and energetic manner in which those operations have been conducted, and the success which has attended the Colonial forces and Native allies in a part of the interior which our forces had never before penetrated, are highly gratifying, and reflect the greatest credit upon the judgment and zeal you have displayed in discharging the very arduous and difficult duties with which you have been intrusted by the Government. The late military achievements at Taupo must produce a most salutary effect upon the whole of the disaffected tribes throughout the North Island. The thanks of the Government are due to Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell for the great ability and skill he has displayed in conducting the military operations. The disposition of the forces, and the gallantry displayed both by Europeans and Natives engaged, deserves the highest commendation. The Hon. the Premier having already conveyed the thanks of the Government to the several officers and men of the Taupo expedition, I need only add that I fully concur with Mr. Fox in appreciating, with thankfulness, the signal services rendered to the Colony by the Taupo expeditionary force. I have, &c, ' His Honor J. D. Ormond, Donald McLean. General Government Agent, Napier.
No. 37. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Defence Minister. Sir, — Napier, Ist November, 1869. I have the honour to acknowledge your letter of the 27th October, conveying to me your approval of the conduct of the operations lately carried out in the Taupo District. I regret to have to report that up to this time the further attempts that have been made to find Te Kooti and his band have been unsuccessful, although Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell and the force under his command have used great exertions, and undergone great hardship, in the endeavour to find his hiding-place. Weather permitting, the force was to start again to-morrow on another expedition in search of him, and I sincerely trust they may be successful. The difficulty of getting supplies to Taupo rather increases than otherwise, and the very wet spring we are having adds to the difficulty. I have, &c, The Hon. the Defence Minister, Auckland. J. D. Ormond.
No. 38. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. the Defence Minister. Sir, — Napier, sth November, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of 27th October, covering memoranda for my guidance as to the course to be pursued with Te Heuheu. I have now to inform you of the steps I have taken in respect to that chief. He arrived here on Wednesday in charge of Henare Tomoana, and I saw him yesterday, the 4th instant, Karaitiana and Henare Tomoana being present at the interview. In the first place I informed him that the Government intended to deal leniently with him, and that his behaviour since his surrender assisted that determination. I then said I did not intend at that interview to hear his explanations of the causes that took him over to Te Kooti, nor to receive the assurances, I understood he was ready to give, of future good conduct; that I thought these had better be made more publicly, and accordingly, on another day, I would invite a few of the chiefs of the district to be present to hear his statements, and the determination the Government have come to in regard to him and his people. ■ I would observe here that I have slightly deviated from the view contained in your memoranda, inasmuch as I have arranged that the Government shall determine, and announce the course they decide in respect to Te Heuheu, and hear his explanations, in place of a commission of Natives and Europeans doing so; and the part I propose the Native chiefs whom I intend to invite to be present (some five or six of the leading men, including Hapuku and Tareha,) shall take is, to be witnesses of the assurances and explanations Te Heuheu may make. I have thought carefully over this question, and trust that on consideration you will agree with what I have done. Te Heuheu expressed himself perfectly satisfied, and said he was glad the Government itself was going to decide about him. He is quite aware of the line that is intended to be taken with him, but his behaviour was most quiet and submissive, and everything that could be wished. I purposely treated him distantly, and it was evident he looked for nothing else.
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Having settled this part of the question, I informed him I wanted information upon various subjects from him, which he gave without the slightest hesitation. I will now give a summary of the intelligence he gave, which was entirely in reply to questions from myself upon different matters I conceived to be of interest. In regard to Nini or Matuahu and the Ngatituwharetoa Tribe, he said they would avail themselves of an invitation to come in; that he had invited Nini to join him, when he surrendered ; but that Nini, and the tribe, expected harsh treatment and preferred retiring to Tuhua. He states, however, that the tribe have entirely separated themselves from Te Kooti, are antagonistic to him, and are assisting to bar the road to Waikato against him. From another letter which I send by this mail, you will see that I have taken measures to communicate with them. He then stated that Rewi was at Tuhua when he (Heuheu) surrendered; that there were 300 men there, of whom 170 were Ngatimaniapoto, the remainder Ngatituwharetoa, with some of Mamaku's people; that they barred the road to Wraikato against Kooti, and would attack him if he tried to pass ; that another party of eighty watched the road by Titiraupeka, their orders being to stop Hakaraia and his people from joining Kooti, and to prevent Kooti from taking the road to Hauraki, which Heuheu states is where he wants to get; he further says that the Upper Wanganuis, Topine, Wi Pakau, and Topia, have also refused to allow him to come their way, and that he is barred in, and has no way out, except along the north-west side of the lake, where Tapuaeharuru post would intercept them. I made detailed inquiries as to the roads open to him, and ascertained that the road by W ranganui River, and thence to Waitara, was the point he could most easily pass. He is believed to be hiding in that direction, and the road is only guarded by Wi Pakau, of the Ngatitaepotu hapu, who has fifty men at O-Tapu, where the track for Waitara leaves the Wanganui River. I also remember about this said Wi Pakau that he is a rank Hauhau, and has been very troublesome in the past. However, that gives you Heuheu's information on all those points. He states that when he left Kooti the force with him was a little over 100, and was composed of his own men (Chatham Islanders), Ureweras, and a few people belonging to Poverty Bay, mostly of the Aitangamahaki hapu. All the Urawera chiefs seem to be there, except Wenuanui; but Heuheu says the men who lead in everything are the Chatham Islanders, and he names Tahau (who was not killed at Tauranga), Karanama, Nepia Tokitahi, Meika, and Petara as the ringleaders of the rest. Hapurona of the Urewera is the most active. As for Te W raru and the others, he says they only want to find rest, and hang to Te Kooti only because no one will receive them. At the time Heuheu left Kooti he was living on the produce of the forest, the principal food being toi, a kind of bush cabbage-tree; he was also very short of ammunition, the practice being before an engagement to serve out what could be spared. He was very short of gun-caps, but a supply of fifteen boxes reached him shortly before the fight at Porcre. Of these boxes of caps, two were for Minie rifles, the remainder for fowling-pieces; this supply came from a settlement at Hauraki named Mataura. This may-be worth inquiring about. I gather further that Te Kooti intended to have made Taupo his head-quarters; that until his defeat he was largely supported, and, if successful, would have obtained possession of the centre of the country. Also that he had a determination, constantly expressed, to go to Poverty Bay; there reinforce himself) destroy Poverty Bay, punish any few real friendlies there, and then attack Wairoa. That includes all the information of any consequence I could get from Heuheu, and with it I will conclude my report. I have, &c, The Hon. the Defence Minister, Auckland. J. D. Ormond.
No. 39. The Hon. the Defence Minister to His Honor J. D. Ormond. Sir, — Auckland, 13th November, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the sth instant, containing the account of your proceedings with reference to the Chief Te Heuheu. I have perused your report with considerable satisfaction, and have to convey to you the thanks of the Government for the judicious and effective manner in which you have dealt with the various important matters to which your letter refers. I approve of the course you have assumed in altering the mode by which it was proposed to inquire into Te Heuheu's case, and I feel assured that your endeavours in that direction will prove satisfactory, and lead to the successful issue anticipated by the Government. The evidence given you by Te Heuheu of the intended movements and position of Te Kooti and his band, is full of interest, and containing, as it does, elements of truth and sincerity, I think it undesirable to proceed any further with the inquiry, except as a matter of form. I have, &c, His Honor J. D. Ormond, Napier. Donald McLean.
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PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE REBEL NATIVES., Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1870 Session I, A-08
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20,644PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE REBEL NATIVES. Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1870 Session I, A-08
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