Māpuna for Saturday 15 October 2022
Restoration of Ōhaeawai battle site
Photo: Julian Wilcox talks to Ohaewai historian Edward Clarke
Mapuna visits Ōhaeawai, scene of the battle in July 1845 between the forces of Ngapuhi chief Kawiti and British troops. After a week bombarding the low-lying fortified pa the British attempted to storm the position but were repelled by Kawiti's men. Now a government grant of $1.7 million has enabled the Ōhaeawai Community Cultural Centre to restore three interrelated sites: the battle area, St Michael's Anglican Church and the Ngawha Native School which is now used as a community centre. Julian Wilcox tours the battle ground with local historian Edward Clarke and relives the battle and its legacy.
Musician Louis Baker
Photo: Musician Louis Baker (photo by Nick George)
Ngapuhi musician Louis Baker has collaborated with Jerome Kavanaugh playing taonga puoro and now he's heading to the upcoming Wellington Jazz Festival. Baker's latest work includes coming to terms with his lineage and his whakapapa.