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March 27, 2025
Portrait of 28 Māori Battlion Minister Unveiled at Waipatu Marae
Kawe Roes
Posted On March 27, 2025
A portrait of Canon Wi Te Tau Huata, minister of the 28 Māori Battalion, was unveiled at Waipatu Marae to honor his life as a soldier, father, and priest.
The painting, by artist Matt Gauldie, was commissioned by the New Zealand Remembrance Army and unveiled at a ceremony with family, the public, and New Zealand Army servicemen. His son, Te Rangi Huata, shared stories about his father’s achievements and love for his iwi.
Canon Huata, from Ngāti Kahungunu, served as a chaplain in the Second World War and joined the 28th Māori Battalion in Egypt, encouraged by Sir Apirana Ngata. He strengthened the Anglican Church in Māori communities and became president of the Te Rau Aroha Society in 1952.
Huata retired in Pāharakeke in 1982 and passed away in 1991. He is survived by five sons and four daughters.
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