Thousands expected in Te Teko for national commemoration

The commemoration for the 152nd anniversary of Te Kupenga o Taramainuku Pa is on Friday. Photo/Supplied

Thousands will converge on Te Teko on Friday, to commemorate the 152nd anniversary of Te Kupenga o Taramainuku Pa.

A pre-European settlement of Ngati Awa, Te Kupenga Pa was recognised as a social, political and economic hub of the lower-Rangitaiki region until September 1865, when crown forces and their allies invaded the rohe of Ngati Awa and laid siege in the pursuit of Ngati Awa tribes involved in the death of Hemi Fulloon.

This lead to the confiscation of a large part of the tribal rohe.

The event will begin with a dawn karakia followed by a 300-man mass pohiri for the Kingitanga, iwi from across Aotearoa, dignitaries and special guests.

Te Kupenga Heritage committee spokesman, Larni Hepi, said the commemoration was a significant learning opportunity for the people of Ngati Awa and Aotearoa.

"Historic battles like that occurred at Te Kupenga have played an important role in shaping our country. We must educate our future generations and our community."

About 2000 people are expected at this year's event.

Last year the committee hosted the 151st commemoration for Ngati Awa, and this year the invitation has been extended nationally, recognising the committee's support of the national commemoration day of the New Zealand land wars of the 1860s to be held on October 28.