More than 150 years has passed since 60 men lost their lives at the Battle of Gate Pa, but they were remembered in a heart-felt tribute last night.

More than 130 people attended the commemorations at the St George's Anglican Church yesterday. Reverend John Hebenton says the event is a significant part of Tauranga's history.

St George's Anglican Church Reverend John Hebenton (left) and Decon Kevin Taylor who read Hori Ngatai's account of the battle at yesterday's commemoration. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

'I think for me the importance of [the commemoration] it is actually a place where people from right across Tauranga can gather to commemorate and there is not many places where we do that. So while it was at an Anglican church, it wasn't a particularly Anglican service.

'We had Mormons and Catholics who took part leading the prays as well as the navy who lead one of the prays… It's a place where people can experience some of the richness of Tauranga as well as some of the stories which make up Tauranga's history.”

The memorial was held at the Anglican Church to honour those who fought and died in the Battle of Gate Pa.

On April 29, 1864, Maori warriors – outnumbered 10 to one – inflicted a stunning defeat on numerous British Colonial forces in what's now known as the Battle of Gate Pa – which is recognised as significant in founding Tauranga City.



St George's Anglican Church in Gate Pa.

The service began at 4pm, which is when – exactly 152 years ago – British forces began their march up Pukehinahina.

An account of the battle was read out followed by a time of silent reflection with images playing. And at 4.30pm Clark Houltram rang the church bell 60 times to remember the 60 men who lost their lives on both side of the battle.

John says the church sits on the battle-site and it was important to tell the story of both sides of the battle.

'We are very aware of the significance of this battle and the Battle of Te Ranga and how they contribute to the founding of our city – and one way to let others know is by telling the story.”

John says two years ago – on the 150th year since the Battle of Gate Pa – a huge commemoration attracted thousands.

Ngai Tamarawaho kaumatua Peri Kohu says he is interested keeping the battle's story it in the public a bit more it 'so becomes part of who we are, than the way it's been treated in the past”.



The Clark Houltram rings the church bell which was donated by the navy was rung 60 times to remember the 60 men who lost their lives on both side of the battle.

The Naval cadets stand as a guarf of honour at yesterday's event.