In this episode of James Belich’s acclaimed history series on the New Zealand Wars, Governor George Grey orders construction of the Great South Road in order to penetrate the heart of the King Movement in the Waikato. The British carry out a series of attacks throughout the Waikato region, including at Rangiriri, Ōrākau and Rangiaowhia. Māori resistance and independence endure despite the wars being waged against them. The Battle of Gate Pā at Pukehinahina leads to a bitter defeat for the British, who continue to struggle against sophisticated Māori pā and trench warfare. Read more about the series here.