3-011-992 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Sketches from New Zealand: scene on the Waikato, near its junction with the Waipa River, 1864. Engraving from a drawing made on the spot by Mr. G. P. Angas, '...representing the picturesque scenery on the Waikato, near its junction with the Waipa River. The Waikato here is broad and deep, and flows majestically along between alluvial plains of the richest soil, which are bounded on the right by the high range of Taupiri. In the distance are seen the mountains of Perongia, near Kawhia, on the west coast. The village on the river bank is called Wakaaepa, and the district around has long been famous for its plantations of the "kumera," or sweet potato, the choicest vegetable of the New Zealander. In the foreground is a "patuka," or storehouse, in which maize, seeds, &c., are kept in security from the rats. Not far from this spot are the principal strongholds and settlements of the powerful Waikato tribes, who are the foremost in opposing British rule in New Zealand, and are at this moment carrying on their unequal warfare with a valour and determination worthy of a better cause'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864.