March 25, 2021
Church built on northern battle site turns 150
St Michael’s Church near Ngāwhā is marking its first 150 years – and the Battle of Ōhaeawai which was fought on the ground it occupies.
Organising committee member Richard Woodman says the kauri and tōtara church is still used for services twice a month.
Sunday’s commemoration will include presentations from rangatahi of Ngāti Rangi about the 1845 battle, when Te Ruki Kāwiti used his sophisticated modern pā to lure in British troops who were then met with withering fire, killing 40 and injuring 70 others.
Mr Woodman says the stone walls around the cemetery running along the line of the palisades and are the only physical remnant of the pā.
Sunday’s commemoration starts with a whakatau at 8.30, with the formalities around the battle starting at noon.
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