Historian Uncovers Truth About Abduction in Te Kooti’s Last Foray
In a groundbreaking discovery, historian Ron Crosby has shed new light on an abduction that took place during the New Zealand Wars in 1870. Crosby, a former barrister turned outdoorsman, embarked on a mission to uncover the truth behind one of Aotearoa’s largest abductions, delving deep into the history books and venturing into the wilderness.
Crosby’s latest book, Te Kooti’s Last Foray, chronicles his findings and challenges long-standing records of the incident. The abduction, which occurred during the conflict between colonial forces and Te Kooti Arikirangi Te Tūruki, involved the kidnapping of 218 Whakatōhea people from Ōmarumutu and Ōpape, near Ōpōtiki in the Bay of Plenty.
Te Kooti, a prominent rangatira (chief) of the 19th century, led his followers through the treacherous terrain of Te Urewera, eventually establishing a pā (fortified village) called Waipuna. It was here that the Whakatōhea people were later discovered and rescued by the Whanganui forces.
However, Crosby’s research uncovered conflicting records, particularly in the diary of Lieutenant Thomas Porter from the Ngāti Porou contingent. According to Crosby, Porter’s diary attempts to rewrite history and discredit the Whanganui contingent led by Major Kēpa Te Rangihiwinui, who played a crucial role in the rescue mission.
Fuelled by a determination to uncover the truth, Crosby embarked on numerous hikes through the bush in Te Urewera, following the footsteps of the Whanganui contingent described in the diary of Samuel Austin, a Pākehā soldier. His meticulous fieldwork, accompanied by artist Stu Spicer, unveiled the forgotten site of Waipuna Pā, which had remained hidden for 150 years.
Through his thorough investigation, Crosby has concluded that Porter’s account was inaccurate and potentially driven by embarrassment over his contingent’s lack of success. His book, Te Kooti’s Last Foray, not only narrates the historical events but also features annotated photographs, detailed maps, and sketches to provide a comprehensive understanding of the abduction and rescue.
Crosby hopes that his findings will rectify the false narrative perpetuated by Porter’s diary, giving due credit to the Whanganui forces and bringing the truth to light for the impacted iwi (tribes) and historians alike. His exploration of Aotearoa’s history serves as a reminder of the importance of revisiting historical accounts and uncovering hidden truths that shape our understanding of the past.
