PUAHA, RAWIRI KINGI (?-1858), a Ngati Toa chief of high rank and influence, was born at Kawhia, and traced his descent from the leaders of the Tainui canoe. He was the eldest son of Hinekoto and Te Matoe (who was killed at Pararewa in 1821). He married Ria Waitohi, daughter of Te Pehi Kupe (q.v.).

In 1819-20 Puaha was a leader in Tuwhare's expedition. Though not compelled to do so, he remained behind at Marakopa during the heke Tahutahu-ahi to protect the women (1821), and later he went south with the heke under Te Rauparaha. He was early influenced by Christianity and disposed to be friendly towards the pakeha. He was baptised by the Rev S Ironside (1 Aug 1841) and became a Wesleyan teacher.

Puaha warned Captain Wakefield against the survey of the Wairau block, which he always asserted was not included in the territory sold to the New Zealand Company. He refused to accept a schooner in satisfaction of his own interest in the land and tried to dissuade Wakefield from attempting to arrest Te Rauparaha and Rangihaeata. At Tua Marina on 17 Jun 1843 his people were unarmed, and in the midst of the korero he read from his Bible and passionately appealed to the disputants not to resort to violence. After the clash he and his wife protested in vain against the killing of the prisoners. Puaha was present when Te Rauparaha was captured and was taken on board H.M.S. Driver, but was at once released and cooperated actively with the colonists and troops, only desisting when Rangihaeata had fled from his positions in the Horokiwi valley.

After the death of Te Rauparaha and Rangihaeata, Puaha took a more prominent part in the affairs of the tribe. He died at Takapuahia, Porirua, on 6 Sep 1858, widely respected as a consistent and conscientious Christian.

G.B.O.P., 1844/556; S.P. Smith, Taranaki; Cowan, Wars; Buick, Marlborough and Old New Zealander; H. T. Kemp in N.Z. Herald, 23, 30 Mar 1901.

Reference: Volume 2, page 96

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