In the latest episode of RNZ's Black Sheep podcast, we explore the life of Hongi Hika.
Hongi Hika is a man with a difficult legacy. He's one of the greatest figures in New Zealand history, but he's also often held responsible for starting the Musket Wars - an outpouring of inter-tribal violence which may have claimed the lives of as many as 20,000 Maori.
History Professor Paul Moon tells how Hongi's skill as a political, economic and military leader allowed him to accomplish things no other chief ever has.
We also get Ngapuhi's perspective on Hongi Hika's legacy from one of his descendants, Haami Piripi.
A sketch of Hongi Hika from a 1820’s painting. Photo: S. Percy Smith (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Black Sheep is written and presented by William Ray, edited by Jason MacLellan and Mark Chesterman – the executive producer is Tim Watkin.
You can subscribe to the series via iTunes or on our Series & Podcasts page.
