Taranaki’s history stretches from 1,000 year old pa sites to
today’s multi-billion dollar energy developments. Noted for its dairy produce
and its superb gardens, Taranaki is dominated by its mountain, which according
to Maori legend, once stood at the centre of the island until forced to flee westward
after losing a battle for the beautiful volcano Pihanga. Much of the regions historic
interest stems from its having been the scene of the outbreak of the main phase
of the New Zealand Wars in the early 1860s. The province’s long Maori history
before the disruptions, first of tribal wars in the early nineteenth century,
then of the arrival of European settlers, is still plainly evident in many ancient
pa and other sites.
Hurworth
906 Carrington Road, New Plymouth
The young pioneer Harry Atkinson sawed the timber for
his own house and created a farm here — but he is better known for being
four times Premier of New Zealand.
Built in 1855 — 1856, the cottage
is the only survivor of a settlement called Hurworth, With its attractive garden
and peaceful rural setting, it is hard to believe the inhabitants had to flee,
after burying their valuables, during the New Zealand Wars.
Parihaka,
a small Taranaki settlement is one of New Zealand’s important historical
and cultural sites.
In 1881 the settlement was invaded by 1500 militia
and armed constabulary. The inhabitants were led by Te Whiti O Rongomai (of Taranaki
and Te Atiawa descent) and Tohu Kakahi (of Taranaki and Ngati Ruanui descent).
Both were committed to non-violence, drawing on ancestral Maori as well as Christian
teaching.
