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New Zealand Wars Sword

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A Scottish officers’ sword which was presented to Maori Chief, Ropata Wahawaha by Queen Victoria during the New Zealand Wars. The sword was one of 6 presented to ‘loyal’ Maori chiefs in recognition of ‘service to the crown’ during the NZ Wars.

The sword was made by Wilkinson in England and is a Pattern 1865 Scottish Officers’ Basket Hilted Sword with Dress Scabbard and shoulder slung red/brown leather sword belt. The blade is engraved on one side with ‘Given by Queen Victoria To Ropata Wahawaha For His Unfailing Loyalty and Valour’ and on the other side with ‘(He Mea Hoatu) Na Wikitoria Na Te Kuini O Incaranui Ki Te Tangata Toa Ki A Ropata Wahawaha Moana Manawanui Ki Te Piri Tonu Ki Te Taha Kuini’.

 

2 responses to “New Zealand Wars Sword”

  1. My 3 x great grandfather, Ben Biddle N.Z.C. was awarded the New Zealand Cross for his role in the Siege of Ngatapa in 1869. Major Wahawaha was also involved in this conflict and played a significant role; both positive and negative (according to the uri of descendants on both sides of this battle). I mention this campaign in my historical novel ‘Born for War: New Zealand’s Military History’ in Chapter 6. My research website can be viewed at: http://www.tumatauenga.webs.com

    Brent Kerehona

    on

  2. Major Rapata Wahawaha was his name not Ropata as you have above ,when his sword was presented to the Army Museum curator at the Bungalow in Waiomatatini it was of concern by late uncle Tipene Ngata that his name be corrected in all correspondence and literature both my brother and I were along with uncle Tipene were involved in those discussions

    Daniel Green

    on

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