Using the feature Troubled times – the Maori King movement 1860–1894 and your own knowledge, complete the following activity.
Maintaining unity
After withdrawing to Ngati Maniapoto territory in the aftermath of Orakau, any hopes that Tawhiao might have had of a Maori 'state within a state' in the central North Island were effectively dead. Allies now allowed the Land Court into their territory, and land sales recommenced. Tawhiao struggled to find a permanent home capable of sustaining his supporters in the wake of the confiscations.
- In a series of paragraphs explain why some hapu and iwi tribes outside the Rohe Potae allowed the Native Land Court to sit in their territory and recommenced selling land, despite having placed their lands under the King's mana.
- Why did Tawhiao not attempt to enforce his edict that supporters have nothing to do with land selling and the operations of the Native Land Court?
- What were some of the specific problems Tawhiao and his main supporters faced in trying to maintain a policy of isolation in the wake of the Waikato War?
- After Orakau there was an expression that described the Kingitanga as having withdrawn in 'sullen isolation'. In your opinion was the Kingitanga in a stronger or weaker position by 1894 in terms of its original aims? Justify your answer.
- Would the Kingitanga have been better off negotiating directly with the government after the war? Outline three advantages and three disadvantages that might have resulted if such an approach had been taken.
