This week hundreds will commemorate the loss, arrest and deportation of their ancestors in a siege that took place 160 years ago on Waeranga A Hika.
Over five days of attacks, the pa was flattened, leaders died and another 400 Maaori including elderly, women and children were captured, arrested and deported to Wharekauri-Rekohu, the Chatham Islands.
The lands were partitioned and given to soldiers whose families today are sixth generation farmers, orchardists and viticulturists.
Artist, iwi historian and Gisborne District Councillor Nick Tupara tells the story.
Photo: Shaan Te Kani
