This practice essay explores the factors that led to the decision to appoint a Maori King, in 1858, and the consequences of this decision for Maori and Pakeha.
In the 1850s, a movement was set up to appoint a Māori king who would unite the tribes, protect land from further sales and make laws for Māori to follow. Te Wherowhero became the first Māori king in 1858.
The Maori King movement came into existence in the late 1850s as an attempt to unite the tribes, prevent land sales and make laws for Maori to follow. Potatau Te Wherowhero became the first Maori King in 1858, but died two years later.
In this 1847 painting by George Angas, Potatau is wrapped in a blanket and seated beside a log. On the right are Te Waru, principal chief of Ngati Apakura, and Te Pakaru, principal chief of Ngati Ti Maniapoto.
