HOUKAMAU, TE HATIWIRA (1842-1916) was born at Wharekahika, Hicks Bay, the son of Iharaia Houkamau, a leading chief of Ngati Porou (who was descended from Porourangi and who took the loyal side in the Hauhau rising. He died in 1875).

In 1865, when left in charge of Te Mawhai pa, Tokomaru, with only women and boys while the men were in the field against the Hauhau, Houkamau successfully defended the position against a force of overwhelming strength. He then proceeded to Waerengahika and took part in the fighting there and later at Ngatapa. As sergeant-major of the Ngati Porou contingent, he served through the Urewera campaign and then received his commission as captain in the New Zealand militia. Commanding a Ngati Porou force against Titokowaru, he took part in much of the fighting there. After the death of Ropata Wahawaha (q.v.) Houkamau became chief of the Ngati Porou tribe. He died on 17 Sep 1916.

Cowan; Who's Who N.Z., 1908; Evening Post, 19 Sep 1916.

Reference: Volume 1, page 224

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