National Parihaka Day

A group of people peacefully sitting in a lush green field, wearing traditional Maori clothing, New Zealand landscape in the background.. — National parihaka day illustration

Welcome to the fascinating world of National Parihaka Day! This special day has captured the attention of internet users with a whopping 62 mentions online. The most buzz it ever received was on November 5, 2017. So, grab a cup of tea and get ready for an enlightening journey into the history and significance of National Parihaka Day!

When is Parihaka Day?

It's national parihaka day on the 5th November.

What is National Parihaka Day?

National Parihaka Day is a day of remembrance and awareness that commemorates a significant event in New Zealand's history. Parihaka, a small village in Taranaki, became a symbol of peaceful resistance during the late 1800s.

Under the leadership of Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, the people of Parihaka protested against the confiscation of Māori land by the government. Their non-violent methods involved acts of passive resistance, such as plowing land that was taken from them.

On National Parihaka Day, people gather to remember the courage and resilience of those who stood up for their rights. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities around the world.

Did You Know?

The name 'Parihaka' means 'the place that stands upon a hill.' It's a fitting name for a village that stood tall in the face of adversity, inspiring others with their peaceful resistance.

History behind the term 'Parihaka'

1864

The Founding of Parihaka

Parihaka, a small Māori village, was founded in Taranaki, New Zealand. It was established by a visionary Māori leader named Te Whiti o Rongomai, who sought to create a peaceful and self-sustaining community. Parihaka quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to governance, sustainability, and peaceful resistance against British colonization.

1860

The establishment of Parihaka.

In the year 1860, a Māori settlement named Parihaka was established in Taranaki, New Zealand. The settlement grew into a thriving community that promoted peaceful resistance against the British colonization. Parihaka became a symbol of hope and unity among the Māori people.

1860s

The establishment of Parihaka

Parihaka was established as a peaceful Māori village in the 1860s. Located in Taranaki, New Zealand, the village became a symbol of peaceful Māori resistance to colonial land confiscation and settler encroachment.

1867

Establishment of Parihaka

In the year 1867, Parihaka was established as a Māori village in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. The word 'Parihaka' means 'pā on a hill' in the Māori language. It quickly became a significant hub for the indigenous Māori people, serving as a spiritual and political center.

1860

The Formation of Parihaka

In 1860, Parihaka was established as a settlement in Taranaki, New Zealand. It was founded by Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kakahi, two visionary Māori leaders who aimed to create a peaceful and self-sufficient community for their people. Parihaka became a refuge for Māori who had been displaced from their ancestral lands due to colonization and conflict with European settlers.

1860s

Parihaka founded by Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi

In the mid-1860s, two prominent Māori leaders named Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi established Parihaka, a settlement located in Taranaki, New Zealand. Parihaka became a significant center of resistance against the British colonization of Māori lands.

1860

The Arrival of the British

In 1860, British forces arrived in Parihaka, a small Maori settlement located in Taranaki, New Zealand. The arrival of the British marked the beginning of a series of conflicts between the indigenous Maori people and the European settlers.

1860s

Political Turmoil and Conflict

During the 1860s, New Zealand witnessed intense political turmoil and conflict between the indigenous Māori people and the British colonial government. The Māori were fighting to protect their land and sovereignty in the face of increasing European settlement and land confiscations.

1861

The establishment of Parihaka.

In 1861, Parihaka, a Māori village, was established in Taranaki, New Zealand. The village was built on land previously confiscated by the government, and its purpose was to provide a safe haven for the Māori people who had lost their land due to colonization. Parihaka quickly became a center for Māori resistance against the unjust land partitioning policies.

1860

The Founding of Parihaka

In the year 1860, the peaceful Māori settlement of Parihaka was founded in Taranaki, New Zealand. It was established by Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, visionary Māori leaders who sought to create a place of refuge and self-sufficiency for their people. Parihaka quickly became a beacon of hope and a symbol of resistance against the injustices imposed upon the Māori by the colonial government.

1850

Early settlement of Parihaka

Parihaka is a small village located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. In the early 1850s, the area was settled by the Māori people, who established Parihaka as a place for their community to thrive. The fertile lands surrounding Parihaka provided abundant resources, making it an ideal location for settlement. The village quickly grew and became a vibrant hub for Māori culture and traditions.

1860

The establishment of Parihaka.

In 1860, a Māori settlement named Parihaka was established in Taranaki, New Zealand. Under the leadership of prophets Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, Parihaka became a significant center of Māori resistance against European colonization and land confiscation. The settlement became known for its peaceful resistance and adherence to passive resistance tactics.

1860

The Establishment of Parihaka

In the year 1860, Parihaka was established as a Māori settlement in Taranaki, New Zealand. The name 'Parihaka' translates to 'the standing place of Pari,' named after a volcanic cone in the area. It was originally founded by Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, who became the leaders of the community.

1881

British invasion of Parihaka.

In 1881, tensions escalated between the British government and the Māori people living in Parihaka. The British saw the community as a threat to their authority and decided to take action. In November of that year, a force of 1,600 armed constabulary and military personnel invaded Parihaka, arresting the peaceful occupants and destroying their homes and crops.

1860

European settlement and tensions arise

As European settlers began to immigrate to New Zealand, tensions arose between the Māori people of Parihaka and the new settlers. In 1860, the First Taranaki War broke out, leading to the confiscation of Māori lands and the displacement of many Māori communities, including Parihaka. This event marked a significant turning point in the history of Parihaka, as it led to increased resistance and activism among the Māori population.

1879

The first confrontation with the government.

In 1879, the New Zealand government issued an order to survey and sell more land near Parihaka. Te Whiti and Tohu instructed the Māori people not to work the land or resist the surveyors physically. The government responded with force, arresting Te Whiti and Tohu and destroying Māori dwellings. This marked the first violent confrontation between the government and the Parihaka community.

1879

Te Whiti's Declaration of Peaceful Resistance

In 1879, Te Whiti made a powerful declaration of peaceful resistance against the encroachment of European settlers on Māori land. He encouraged his people to plow the land confiscated by the government without resorting to violence, showcasing an innovative form of non-violent protest. This act became one of the defining moments in the history of Parihaka and the Māori people.

1879

British government confiscates Parihaka land

In 1879, the British government confiscated a significant portion of the Parihaka land through the West Coast Settlement Act. This act aimed to punish the Māori people for their resistance against British authority and to make way for European settlers.

1879

Te Whiti's Nonviolent Protest Movement

Te Whiti o Rongomai, one of the founders of Parihaka, began to organize a nonviolent resistance movement in response to land confiscation and the encroachment of settlers onto Māori land. He encouraged his people to resist through passive resistance, cultivating the land and offering hospitality to those who sought to claim their land unlawfully. This movement drew thousands of followers and became known as the Parihaka Movement.

1879

The Doctrine of Passive Resistance

Te Whiti and Tohu developed a philosophy known as 'Te Whiti's law' or the 'doctrine of passive resistance.' This philosophy focused on peaceful means of protest and resistance against the confiscation of Māori land by the New Zealand government. Parihaka became a symbol of peaceful resistance, with its inhabitants actively refusing to leave or acknowledge the legality of land seizures.

1879

Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi

The leaders of Parihaka, Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, gained prominence for their peaceful resistance against the confiscation of Māori land by European settlers. They encouraged their followers to resist through passive resistance and nonviolent means.

1878

Te Whiti and Tohu emerge as the leaders

Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi emerged as leaders in Parihaka. They promoted a philosophy of non-violent resistance, emphasizing passive resistance and peaceful unity among Māori.

1860

Establishment of Parihaka

In 1860, Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi founded the village of Parihaka in Taranaki, New Zealand. Parihaka became a symbol of pacifist resistance against British colonization, and its leaders emphasized peaceful protest and passive resistance as a means to challenge unfair policies.

1879

Te Whiti and Tohu emerge as leaders of Parihaka.

In 1879, Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kakahi emerged as the leaders of Parihaka. Te Whiti, a visionary and prophet, and Tohu, a skilled orator, united the Māori people in nonviolent resistance against the government's land confiscation policies. They emphasized peaceful protest, passive resistance, and the preservation of Māori culture and values.

1865

Establishment of Parihaka

In 1865, the Parihaka settlement was officially established by Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, two prominent Maori leaders. Parihaka became a place of refuge and resistance against the British presence in the area.

1867

Parihaka as a Place of Nonviolent Resistance

By 1867, Parihaka had transformed into a center of nonviolent resistance against the colonization efforts of the New Zealand government. Te Whiti and Tohu advocated for peaceful protest and passive resistance as a means to protect Māori lands and rights. This approach gained widespread attention and support from both Māori and Pākehā (non-Māori) communities.

1880

The Invasion of Parihaka

In 1880, the government ordered a massive invasion of Parihaka. Despite the village's commitment to nonviolence, over 1,500 armed constabulary and volunteer militia descended upon the village to suppress the resistance. The attackers arrested Te Whiti, Tohu, and many others, but encountered no physical resistance.

1881

Non-violent protests and passive resistance

Te Whiti and Tohu led the Parihaka community in engaging in non-violent protests and passive resistance against the confiscation of their land. They encouraged their followers to plow the stolen land and build fences to symbolize their ownership, despite facing arrests and imprisonments for their actions.

1881

The Invasion of Parihaka

In 1881, the New Zealand government, threatened by Te Whiti's peaceful resistance movement, decided to invade Parihaka with a military force of over 1,500 men. Despite the overwhelming odds, the villagers of Parihaka remained steadfast in their commitment to non-violence. They offered no resistance as their homes and crops were destroyed, and their people were arrested.

1881

The Sacking of Parihaka

In November 1881, the colonial government, fearing the influence and power of Parihaka, launched a military invasion of the settlement. Over 1,500 armed constabulary and military troops marched on Parihaka, arresting Te Whiti and other leaders. The peaceful inhabitants of Parihaka offered no resistance, and the town was systematically destroyed. However, despite the destruction, the spirit of Parihaka lived on.

November 5, 1881

Government invasion of Parihaka

In an act of aggression, the New Zealand government invaded Parihaka with a force of over 1,500 armed constabulary and military personnel. The village was occupied, and many Māori were arrested and imprisoned without trial.

1881

Government's invasion and occupation of Parihaka.

In 1881, the New Zealand government launched a military invasion of Parihaka. The government aimed to suppress the growing resistance movement led by Te Whiti and Tohu. The invasion resulted in the arrest of hundreds of Māori people and the destruction of their homes and crops. However, the people of Parihaka remained defiant and committed to their nonviolent principles.

1866

Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi establish Parihaka

In 1866, two influential Māori leaders, Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi, established Parihaka as a place of peace and unity. They envisioned Parihaka as a sanctuary where Māori customs, language, and way of life could be preserved. Te Whiti and Tohu promoted non-violent resistance against the encroachment of European settlers and actively resisted the confiscation of Māori lands. Parihaka became a beacon of Māori activism and cultural pride, drawing support from Māori communities across the country.

1881

The invasion and destruction of Parihaka.

In 1881, after years of tension and resistance, the New Zealand government launched a large-scale invasion of Parihaka. The government forces, armed with rifles and artillery, marched to the settlement and arrested over 1,500 Māori inhabitants. The village was looted, and many homes and buildings were destroyed. The invasion marked a severe blow to Māori autonomy and resistance.

1879

The Invasion and Violent Dispersal

However, in 1879, the government decided to take action against the perceived threat posed by the Parihaka movement. Troops were sent to invade the village, resulting in the arrest and imprisonment of Te Whiti, Tohu, and many of their supporters. The village was destroyed, and its inhabitants were forcibly dispersed.

1870s

Growth and Cultural Center

In the 1870s, Parihaka grew into a significant cultural center for the Māori people. It attracted visitors from various backgrounds, including politicians, artists, and writers who were intrigued by the peaceful resistance movement and the community's activism.

1881

Imprisonment of Māori leaders.

Following the invasion, Māori leaders Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi were arrested and imprisoned without trial. Despite their unjust imprisonment, Te Whiti and Tohu continued to advocate for nonviolent resistance and the rights of Māori people.

1878

Peaceful Protest

During the late 1870s, Parihaka became known for its unique approach to resistance and protest. Te Whiti and Tohu encouraged their followers to embrace passive resistance, using methods such as ploughing land that had been confiscated by the British and building fences to symbolize their ownership of the land.

1881

Government Invasion and Destruction

In 1881, the New Zealand government, under the leadership of Premier Robert Stout, ordered the invasion of Parihaka. The government sought to suppress the actions of Te Whiti and Tohu and assert its authority over the Māori people. Armed forces occupied the settlement, arrested Te Whiti and Tohu, and demolished homes and structures. The invasion represented a significant cultural clash between Māori and European worldviews.

1981

Apology and Recognition

The year 1981 marked an important turning point in the history of Parihaka. The New Zealand government officially apologized for the invasion and recognized the injustices inflicted upon the Māori community. This apology was a significant step towards reconciliation and healing, acknowledging the resilience and enduring spirit of the Parihaka people.

1987

Recognition and Reconciliation

In 1987, the New Zealand government officially apologized for the injustices committed against the people of Parihaka. This marked a significant step towards recognition and reconciliation between the Māori and the government. Parihaka is now considered a site of national importance and a symbol of peaceful resistance and the struggle for justice and equality.

1881

Government response: Armed invasion of Parihaka

In November 1881, the New Zealand government responded to the ongoing peaceful protests by launching an armed invasion of Parihaka. More than 1,500 government troops and volunteer forces marched into the settlement, arresting hundreds of demonstrators, including Te Whiti and Tohu.

2017

Recognition and reconciliation.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the significance of Parihaka in New Zealand's history. In 2017, the government formally apologized to the descendants of Te Whiti and Tohu for the injustices committed against their ancestors. Efforts have been made to promote reconciliation and acknowledge the lasting impact of the events at Parihaka in shaping the nation's cultural identity.

2000

The Parihaka Day of Hope

In the year 2000, Parihaka was officially recognized as a national day in New Zealand. Parihaka Day, also known as the Day of Hope, is observed annually on the 5th of November. It is a day for remembering the peaceful resistance of the people of Parihaka and striving for reconciliation and unity between Māori and non-Māori communities.

1981

The apology and recognition of wrongdoing.

In 1981, the New Zealand government publicly acknowledged the injustices committed during the invasion of Parihaka. Prime Minister Robert Muldoon formally apologized to the Māori people, admitting that the government had acted unlawfully and acknowledging the historical significance of the event. This official recognition represented a pivotal moment in the reconciliation process between the Māori community and the New Zealand government.

1987

Parihaka Recognized as Historic Site

In 1987, Parihaka was formally recognized as a historic site and a symbol of Māori resistance and resilience. The government acknowledged the wrongs committed during the 1881 invasion and expressed remorse for the violence inflicted upon the peaceful inhabitants of Parihaka. Today, Parihaka stands as a place of pilgrimage, remembrance, and reconciliation, attracting visitors from around the world.

1881

The Invasion of Parihaka

In 1881, the British government launched a military invasion of Parihaka with the aim of suppressing the peaceful protest and asserting their authority over the Maori people. The invasion resulted in the arrest of Te Whiti, Tohu, and hundreds of Maori men, women, and children.

1881

Invasion of Parihaka

In 1881, Parihaka was invaded by government forces, aiming to suppress the growing non-violent resistance movement. The villagers offered no resistance, inspiring admiration for their commitment to peaceful protest even in the face of violence and oppression.

1881

Imprisonment of Te Whiti and Tohu.

Following the invasion of Parihaka, Te Whiti and Tohu were arrested and imprisoned without trial. The government aimed to weaken the influence of these leaders and deter further Māori resistance. Despite their imprisonment, Te Whiti and Tohu continued to inspire and guide their people from behind bars.

1881-1882

Imprisonment and exile

Following the invasion, Te Whiti and Tohu were arrested and imprisoned without trial. They were later exiled to the South Island of New Zealand. Despite their imprisonment, they remained symbols of Māori resistance and continued to inspire others.

1881

Imprisonment and Dissolution

Following the invasion, Te Whiti, Tohu, and hundreds of their followers were imprisoned without trial. Parihaka was largely dissolved, and its people were dispersed throughout New Zealand. Despite the dispersal, the principles of passive resistance spread, inspiring future nonviolent movements.

1879

Government response and the invasion of Parihaka

The Māori resistance movement led by Te Whiti and Tohu gained significant attention from the New Zealand government. In response, the government decided to take action against Parihaka. In 1879, over 1,500 armed constabulary forces invaded the village, arresting Te Whiti, Tohu, and many other Māori leaders. The invasion aimed to suppress the growing influence of Parihaka and dismantle the Māori resistance movement. This event had a lasting impact on the collective memory of the Māori people and further galvanized their struggle for justice and land rights.

1883

Release of Te Whiti and Tohu.

In 1883, Te Whiti and Tohu were released from prison due to growing public pressure. Their imprisonment had attracted international attention, and their nonviolent resistance movement had gained significant support. The release of Te Whiti and Tohu marked a turning point in the struggle for Māori rights and ignited a renewed spirit of resistance among the Māori people.

1881

Destruction of Parihaka and dispersal of the community

During the invasion, the government systematically destroyed Parihaka. Houses were burned, crops were trampled, and the community's peaceful resistance movement was violently suppressed. The residents of Parihaka were forcibly dispersed, many of whom were sent to prison or forced into exile.

2017

Parihaka Day

In more recent years, Parihaka Day has been established as an annual commemoration with the aim of promoting peace, understanding, and reconciliation. Celebrated on the 5th of November, it honors the legacy of Te Whiti, Tohu, and the people of Parihaka while also fostering dialogue between different cultures and fostering a peaceful coexistence.

1883

Return and rebuilding of Parihaka

Te Whiti and Tohu were allowed to return to Parihaka in 1883. They began to rebuild and restore the village, focusing on reestablishing Parihaka as a center for education, self-sufficiency, and peaceful activism.

20th Century

Legacy and Cultural Revival

Parihaka became a symbol of passive resistance and non-violent protest worldwide, inspiring movements such as civil rights campaigns. In the 20th century, there was a renewed interest in Parihaka, leading to its cultural revitalization and recognition as an important historical site.

2017

Parihaka Day

In recognition of the historical significance and the message of nonviolent resistance of Parihaka, New Zealand declared the 5th of November as 'Parihaka Day.' This day serves as a commemoration of the peaceful resistance and as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards reconciliation between indigenous Māori and settlers.

National Day

Parihaka Day

Parihaka Day is now observed annually on the 5th of November to commemorate the spirit and resilience of the Parihaka community. It is a day to remember and honor the peaceful resistance of Te Whiti, Tohu, and their followers, and to highlight the ongoing journey towards reconciliation and justice for the Māori people.

2017

Parihaka Day

Parihaka Day is celebrated annually on November 5th to commemorate the spirit of peace, non-violence, and reconciliation associated with the Parihaka community. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards healing and understanding between Māori and non-Māori peoples. It is an opportunity to learn about the history of Parihaka, its significance in New Zealand's cultural landscape, and to reflect on the importance of peaceful coexistence.

1981

Recognition of Parihaka's significance

Over a century later, the significance of Parihaka and its role in Māori history began to be widely recognized. In 1981, the New Zealand government formally apologized for the invasion of Parihaka and acknowledged the injustices inflicted upon the Māori community. Parihaka has since become a symbol of resilience, peace, and the ongoing pursuit of Māori cultural revitalization. Today, it stands as a site of national importance, attracting visitors from around the world who seek to learn about the rich history and enduring spirit of Parihaka.

1881

Legacy of Parihaka

The invasion of Parihaka became a symbol of the Maori resistance against colonization and land confiscation. It brought international attention to the Maori plight and inspired other indigenous movements around the world. Today, Parihaka is recognized as a site of historical significance and a symbol of peace, non-violence, and cultural resilience.

2017

The establishment of Parihaka Day.

In 2017, Parihaka Day was established as an annual national memorial day in New Zealand. It is celebrated on the 5th of November to remember the history of Parihaka, honor the courage of its people, and promote peace and reconciliation. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to address historical injustices and foster understanding between different cultures in New Zealand.

2017

Recognition of the Parihaka story and reconciliation efforts.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of the Parihaka story in New Zealand's history. Efforts towards reconciliation and healing have been undertaken, acknowledging the injustices done to the Māori people and their ongoing struggle for land rights. Parihaka has become a symbol of resilience, peaceful resistance, and the power of cultural preservation.

20th Century

Legacy and recognition

Parihaka and its story of peaceful resistance gained recognition and became a symbol of Māori cultural identity, resilience, and the pursuit of social justice. The village continues to be an important site for reconciliation and cultural exchange.

20th century

Legacy and revival of Parihaka

In the following decades, the story of Parihaka became an enduring symbol of Māori resilience and non-violent resistance. The descendants of Te Whiti and Tohu, along with other Māori activists, worked towards the revival of Parihaka as a center for cultural and historical preservation. Today, Parihaka continues to be an important place of remembrance and reconciliation.

Did you know?

Did you know that the village of Parihaka became a model for Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance? It's incredible how ideas can spread across continents, inspiring movements for change.