Why was The Battle of Kūititanga important?

180 years ago, on 16 October 1839, a remarkable event took place which involved, in different ways, some of the most important figures in New Zealand's history. 

The Battle of Kūititanga was fought on the beaches of the Kapiti Coast. This is not a particularly well-known event but historian Dr Grant Morris is here to help us understand the significance of the event.

Gilfillan, John Alexander, 1793-1864 :Wai-Kanae Pa and Kapiti. [Before 1847] Photo: National Library