TAUTARI, a chief of the Ngati-Tonu division of Ngati-Awa at Whakatane (now the Ngati-Pukeko), was a kinsman of the Ngati-Pikiao by marriage. A warrior of great renown, he was one of the chiefs of a taua of 600 who established themselves at Te Whaiti and fought against the Ngati-Manawa. He showed great skill in guerrilla warfare, particularly in the bush fighting against Ngapuhi. Though not an Arawa, he lived amongst the Ngati-Whakaue on sufferance. He had a pa at Lake Roto-ehu, which he strongly fortified against attack by Ngai-te-Rangi, whom he defeated in 1818 (killing Rangihau). Considering he had not got complete utu for his losses, he fitted out a fleet at Whakatane to surprise Te Whanau-o-Ngati-Whao on Tuhua (Mayor Island). Approaching the island at dusk from the rear he led the attack confidently up the steep glacis to the pa, but the defenders, fully warned and having seen the fleet approaching, were prepared and let loose a torrent of rocks which broke up the assault and turned it into defeat. In the wars of the twenties Tautari received 12 hatchet wounds.

His grandson, Te Whetu, was chief of the tribe during the wars of the sixties.

S. P. Smith; Cowan, Wars.

Reference: Volume 2, page 188

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