The Last Strum

Yesterday was the funeral of respected and much loved Ngāi Tamarāwaho kaumātua Peri Reweti Kohu (1951-2022), a man I consider one of my ‘uncles’ – one of the group I treasure as advisors and friends, who have always treated me with kindness, respect and aroha.

1881 Great Tauranga Fire: Tauranga Nearly Destroyed

The Great Tauranga Fire of 1881 reduced to ashes all the buildings on the block between Harington and Hamilton Streets, destroying almost the entire northern end of the township. This article is from the Evening Star of 1 June 1881 (p. 2) and gives comprehensive details about the fire, including the massive effort by local Māori to try and help shopkeepers save their goods.

Easter Holidays in Tauranga, 1884

An annual free Easter excursion was provided by the Directors of the Northern S.S. Company on Tauranga harbour.

Floggings at Tauranga Domain

Today if you are found guilty of a misdemeanour you might receive a fine or a light jail sentence. If you were a member of the armed forces occupying Tauranga in the 1860s you would be tied to a “triangle” on what is now the Tauranga Domain, and flogged.

156 years since the Battle of Gate Pā | Pukehinahina (1864-2020)

I cannot help thinking of those wounded, Māori and British who, 156 years ago, are lying where they fell, very likely covered in mud, blood and their own filth. There is no romanticising the harsh and brutal reality of the battlefield.

Leading the way in local history: Tauranga Historical Society

Inaugurated on 7 July 1951, the Tauranga Historical Society exists primarily to preserve and promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Western Bay of Plenty for the people of the region and beyond. Members are history enthusiasts and contribute to the Society’s biannual magazine, Historical Review: Bay of Plenty Journal of History.

Mock Court in Tauranga (28 August 1915)

The ‘force’ was on the prowl all afternoon, making several excellent captures, including Miss Bedlington who was arrested for riding on the footpath. She appeared immediately in the Court seated upon her horse.

News from Tauranga City Libraries

Ngā Wāhi Rangahau Research Collections at Tauranga City Library boasts a rich local history collection and a wealth of material of interest to historians, genealogists, students, and others.