The Kohimaramara Conference of 1860

In 1860, rebellion broke out in Taranaki, members of the Kingitanga Movement had joined the fighting and were threatening to attack Auckland.

The Governor Thomas Gore Browne called a meeting of Maori chiefs from all over New Zealand to assess their loyalty to the Crown. This took place at Kohimarara, a small town to the east of Auckland. (actually it was at Mission Bay)

The conference lasted for nearly a month and over 200 Maori chiefs from all over New Zealand were invited and most attended.

Houses for the chiefs to stay in were built and food was provided on a daily basis. Governor Brown and the Native Secretary Donald Mclean led the meeting. Then many maori chiefs gave their own speeches. The conference started on July 10th with 112 Maori chiefs attending.

In his opening address Governor Brown, explained to the chiefs why he felt that British colonisation had been much better in New Zealand than any other form of colonisation in other countries. The British had educated the Maori, in other countries they were kept separate. They had also brought Christianity and British Law

The Native secretary and Chief Land Purchase Commissioner Donald McLean, then took over running the meeting. He reiterated the Governors statements as regards the Treaty and what it meant.

Many chiefs got up to speak over the next 30 days. All of their speeches are available online from the Maori Messenger

Some examples:

Te Mutu said “I shall side with the Queen and the Governor”

Tukihaumene said “let the Queens sovereignty spread and extend to every place”

Tamihana Te Rauparaha said “we are now following a new path and a right one.. Let us abandon Maori customs."

Many chiefs spoke against tikanga and witchcraft, and hoped they would be buried forever.

Most of the chiefs spoke against the idea of the Maori King movement which was just starting. Then came the question of land. Most chiefs agreed that the British system of Title was good as it protected their land, and allowed them to sell it if they wished. (only once) As regarding the law, the chiefs agreed that the British system of justice was good. But that they wanted some maori to be appointed as magistrates later on when they were ready.

The conference concluded on August 10th 1860.

Chief Paikea rose and proposed the following resolution. That this Conference takes cognisance of the fact that the several Chiefs, members thereof, are pledged to each other to do nothing inconsistent with their declared recognition of the Queen's sovereignty, and of the union of the two races; also to discountenance all proceedings tending to a breach of the covenant here solemnly entered into by them.

It was seconded and carried and then 107 chiefs signed the declaration. Some members close to the Waikato tribes did not vote.

Comments

The Conference confirms that the maori chiefs were happy with British sovereigty and law

(t09)