At the beginning of term 2, Year 13 History was lucky enough to go on a day field-trip to learn about various battles of the Waikato War.

First we visited Pukekohe East Church and had a tour and briefing from Tom, a member of the church preservation society, whose ancestor fought in a battle between Maori and European settlers on the church grounds in 1863. We then drove to Alexander redoubt to look over the remains of the British fort and took in the stunning views if the Mighty Waikato river. Continuing to Meremere we scaled the Maori Pa and marvelled at its impeccable military placement, which gave us a 360 degree view of the region around us. From there we finished at Rangiriri, to pay respect to fallen Maori and British soldiers at the cemetery and memorial. We also saw the genius of Maori Defensive warfare as we inspected the Pa remains where the Rangiriri battle took place.

Overall it was an interesting day with the year 13 History students learning more about our country’s history and heritage. A big thank you to Ms Farrar and Mr Collier for organising this great day out.