TE PARE-IHE (?1790-1845), a chief of the Ngai-te-Whatu-i-Apiti hapu of Ngati-Kahungunu, lived for many years at his stronghold at Roto-atara, in Ahuriri. He was celebrated for his knowledge of government and the needs of his people. When the taua of Ngati-Tuwharetoa, Waikato and Ngati-Maniapoto, under Te Heuheu, came to Ahuriri in 1822, they besieged Pare-ihe for three months in Roto-a-tara. From a tower which he erected to command the causeway, Pare-ihe killed with a stone Arawai, the son of Tu Korehu (q.v.). The pa was eventually burned, but Pare-ihe made a successful sortie, killed many of the enemy, and was able to withdraw to Porangahau. Repeated invasions from the interior (mainly promoted by the Ngati-Raukawa) caused dismay to Ngati-Kahungunu, and Pare-ihe eventually made overtures to Te Wera (q.v.) for assistance against them. After a conference at his pa, Kowhai, the two spent some time together at Mahia. Pare-ihe agreed to go to Mahia for safety, but could not persuade the people of Te Pakake to do the same, and they were overwhelmed (1824). With the help of Te Wera, Te Whatanui was now driven out of the plains, where he had intended remaining. In 1830 Pare-ihe and Nukupewapewa were able to leave Nukutaurua, but they determined first to avenge the defeats inflicted by Te Heuheu. A strong taua defeated the Ngati-Tuwharetoa at Omakukura, on Lake Taupo, and Pare-ihe then made peace with the inland tribes by marrying Te Rohu, a daughter of Te Heuheu. He persuaded his people to reoccupy the Heretaunga plains (1837). Pare-ihe was baptised some years before his death.

Personal information from J. H. Grace; Lambert; S. P. Smith.

Reference: Volume 2, page 77

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