The search for a king
Using the feature, The origins of the King movement, complete the following tasks.
Most of the prominent chiefs approached in the mid-1850s to become the Maori King declined the offer. Iwikau Te Heuheu Tukino III of Ngati Tuwharetoa refused nomination for the position on two occasions. Instead, he suggested Potatau Te Wherowhero of Ngati Mahuta (Waikato), who was eventually installed as the first Maori King, in 1858.
- What did Tamihana Te Rauparaha believe Maori would achieve in establishing a monarchy?
- In a paragraph of 6–8 lines, outline why Matene Te Whiwhi found it difficult to persuade prominent chiefs to put themselves forward as nominees for the position of Maori King.
- In a paragraph of 6–8 lines, outline what factors convinced many people that Potatau Te Wherowhero was the best candidate for the position of Maori King.
- In your judgement, what were the three greatest problems that Potatau Te Wherowhero faced when he became Maori King in 1858?
- What was the significance of the mountains (maunga) pledged to Potatau Te Wherowhero at his installation at Ngaruawahia in June 1858?
