Ōmata stockade was built on the site of an earlier pā in 1860 by settlers in response to rising tensions. The stockade became an early flashpoint in 28 March 1860 when a group of Ngāti Ruanui, Ngā Rauru and Taranaki iwi approached the stockade from nearby Kaipopo pā. After an abortive attempt by British soldiers garrisoned in New Plymouth to relieve settlers in the stockade and surrounding area, sailors and marines from HMS Niger assaulted that evening. Two British and colonial soldiers died. Māori casualties are not clear, but could be much higher.

The stockade is in an historic reserve accessible from the roadside.

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