It’s hard to image such a beautiful and serene place being the place of a one of NZ’s hardest fought land wars but on April 29 1864 that is exactly what happened here. The battle was hugely significant for both Maori and Eurpoeans not just in terms of land ownership but in terms of race relations. Most people who travel the busy main road (Cameron Road, named after General Cameron who led the Imperial troops) will pass by unaware of the signifance of the day and the site but I know I for one will be stopping by to say a quiet thankyou to those that gave so much. Things have changed ofcourse and these days this land is for all people and it is the inheritance of all NZ’rs regardless of origin. If you wish to you can read more here.
April 29 is also the day for blogging about WORLD HUNGER. However I am going to take advantage of the timezone difference for that! Watch this space!