[Page, George Hyde] 1823-1908 :[The fight at Battle Hill, Horokiwi, 6th August, 1846.]

Shows troops advancing up Battle Hill to attack Rangihaeata's men. Shooting is occuring around a fallen tree part-way up the hill, with several dead soldiers on the ground. No Maori are visible.

The artist took part in the battle as a lieutenant and subsequently rose to the rank of Major-General.

Other Titles - Horokiri

According to Mundy's 'Our Antipodes' (1852, p. 334) 'Major Last with a strong force of troops, militia and native allies pursued the flying Rangihaeata. Hotly pressed, the rebel chief soon turned to bay on a spot that had been previously prepared for a stand - a rough breastwork of horizontal logs pierced for musketry had been drawn across a narrow and steep spur of a thickly-wooded spur - so narrow indeed that but few men could approach abreast and flanked by steep ravines. On the morning of the sixth of August 1846 this strong position was attacked with but little effect and with the loss of a promising and much beloved young officer, Ensign Blackburn of the 99th regiment and two privates killed and nine wounded. Two small mortars having meanwhile arrived the position was again assailed on the eighth but without success and the troops were withdrawn.'

Quantity: 1 oil(s).

Physical Description: Oil on canvas 610 x 580 mm

Provenance: Purchase: Estate of Dr. P Marshall, Wellington, ca 1950.