Wellington to Whanganui

Once he had successfully claimed victory and then negotiated a relatively benevolent peace with Heke and Kawiti, Grey sailed southward. Tensions remained high around Wellington with both Te Rauparaha and Te Rangihaeata having moved north to their traditional lands. Their presence tended to dampen the claims of Settlers to areas they coveted – the fertile Hutt being one area. Rangihaeata claimed Ngati Toa had never sold this land and it was off limits to settlers.

Grey had far more muscle than Fitzroy had enjoyed and was prepared to use it. He immediately expelled the occupants of one Pa and prepared to fight. Local Maori became engaged in a short war, with engagements at the Gillespie’s and later at Boulcott’s farm. There was disagreement amongst Ngati Toa about who to support with some opposing the fighting because of the perceived effect on Pakeha trading (Just like Ngapuhi had in the War in the North). This split was worsened when Grey took the pre-emptive step of kidnapping the neutral Te Rauparaha.

Te Rangihaeata moved to Pauatahanui and then when threatened by other Maori (but NOT by advancing British troops) fled northward to the Manawatu.

Te Mamaku who had supported Rangihaeata fled back to the Whanganui and briefly threatened the settlement there. Again local Maori objected to the potential loss of trade and failed to support him.

Thus, ended the very brief, Wellington War. One thing that stands out here is the ruthlessness that Grey displayed in forcing a war with Ngati Toa and in kidnapping and imprisoning Te Rauparaha without ever charging him. (Habeus Corpus anyone?). The other thing that stands out was in the way that Iwi and Hapu could be seduced by the lure of European goods and turn on each other if necessary. The term Kupapa is not generally used, but in 1845-7 Maori were already fighting other Maori in the service of the Queen (although they would say for their own reasons).