Conflict from Within and Without (1773–1837 CE)

This chapter discusses a period of profound turbulence in Heretaunga and surrounding areas over the last quarter of the eighteenth century and the first four decades of the nineteenth century. The region experienced a marked rise in conflict that began with the formation of a new polity on the western edge of Heretaunga which developed numerous grievances with the groups enjoying the resources of the ocean, plains, and inland lakes. Subsequently, it turned to external allies from considerable distances, and after some time these included groups armed with muskets. This had a drastic impact on Heretaunga, forcing the tangata whenua to essentially abandon their lands for more than a decade, not returning until the year 1837. The careers of two important leaders during this period are also highlighted. Different possible explanations for the increase of warfare in the late eighteenth century and prior to the availability of muskets are discussed.