Following his successful defence of Te Kahika Pā, Hōne Heke returned to Te Ahuahu pā, built on or near a steep volanic cone only a few kilometres distant. In early June 1845, Ngāpuhi forces (Te Taonui and Tāmati Wāka Nene) seized the pā while Heke was away gathering supplies. Heke returned and tried to retake the pā on 12 June 1845. In the ensuing battle between rival taua, Heke's focres suffered a severe blow, and he was shot through the thigh.

The cone is now farmland. The precise location of the pā is unknown.

Learn more

• NZHistory.govt.nz
• Ruapekapeka.co.nz