NZ Wars Collection

Ground-breaking and in-depth, the New Zealand Wars series takes you through each chapter of the New Zealand wars, region by region, from the 1840s to the 1880s.

Hosted by William Ray, Justine Murray, Mihingarangi Forbes, Shannon Haunui-Thompson and Tim Watkin

A 19th century Māori warrior stands in on a battlefield brandishing a patu and axe. Text reads "NZ Wars"

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Episode 1

Season 1 / Episode 1
On June 17th 1843, a posse of European settlers head to the Wairau Valley planning to arrest renowned chief Te Rauparaha and his nephew, Te Rangihaeata. A gun battle breaks out and 26 people are killed, including several Pakeha prisoners executed in the aftermath. What started it all? And why?
Detail from the deed of sale of Cloudy Bay to John Blenkinsopp. The moko pattern is believed to either belong to Te Rauparaha or Te Rangihaeata.

Episode 2

Season 1 / Episode 2
Tensions over land at Wairau, and injustices and insults against Ngāti Toa leaders reach their boiling point. Arthur Wakefield, the leader of the Nelson settlement decides to seize the land by force. But the former British Navy Captain has severely underestimated his adversaries... and there will be tragic results.
Ngāti Toa leader, Te Rauparaha

Introducing: NZ Wars: Stories of Wairau

Trailer
The NZ Wars series goes back to the first shots fired... to Wairau in June 1843.
NZ Wars: Stories of Wairau tile

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