PATUKI, TEONI TOPI (?1810-1900) was a leading chief of both tribes Ngai-Tahu and Ngati-Mamoe. He was born at Waipati, and lived for many years at Kaiapoi, though his real home was Ruapuke. Patuki saw a good deal of tribal fighting in his youth and was a member of the taua under Tuhawaiki, which fell upon the Ngati-Tama invaders at Tuturau, Otago, in 1836. He is said to have shot Te Puoho. Patuki afterwards came under the influence of the Wesleyan missionaries and, having been baptised by the Rev Charles Creed, was for many years a Wesleyan native teacher. He was a friend of Wohlers. About 1840 he returned from Kaiapoi to Ruapuke and he signed the deed of sale of Stewart Island. Shortland says that he had a very European appearance, dressed well, and was an expert whaler. He assisted Captain J. L. Stokes (q.v.) in the survey of Foveaux Strait.

Patuki was a nephew of Tamaiharanui and after the death of Tuhawaiki and his son Kihau (1844) he became paramount chief. He was consistently friendly to Europeans. He died at Ruapuke on 28 Sep 1900.

A son, John TOPI PATUKI, was a member of the Legislative Council (1918-1925).

N.Z.P.D., 28 Oct 1884; Shortland; Wohlers; Roberts, Southland; Otago Daily Times and Southland Times, 2, 24 Oct 1900.

Reference: Volume 2, page 80

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