Octavius Hadfield
[extract from the diary of Octavius Hadfield]
Nov. 18th . . . Left Hongoeka at 4.30 in the morning and after a rough walk of about five miles came to Pukerua where we remained some time with the natives and had breakfast. They were desirous of obtaining books. We then proceeded and passed Paripari, Wainui, Tipapa, Wareroa, Waremoku and Taurui and then arrived at Waikanae about 6 having walked about 15 miles, the latter part of our road being hard sandy beach. The natives are at war, only acting on the defensive. They met for prayers as soon as we arrived, when the Revd. H. Williams addressed them—there were near a thousand present. It was an interesting sight and I lifted up my heart to God with feelings of gratitude and prayed that His blessing may come down upon them. . . .