PATENE, WIREMU (WILLIAM BARTON) (1810-84) was born in the Waikato and at the period of the commencement of the Wesleyan mission at Whaingaroa (1835) had won considerable influence in his tribe. He shared fully in the prevalent practices of his race and in an intertribal conflict was observed making effective use of the deadly weapon in his hand. Confronted by the Rev James Wallis, who was engaged in successful efforts to restore peace, he became a regular attendant at the mission church and under missionary influence his life was transformed. At his baptism he received the name of William Barton, after a talented English Wesleyan minister. He became a lay preacher and rendered good service in the Waikato district. At the Wesleyan native theological institution at Three Kings he received training under Thomas Buddle and Alexander Reid. In 1859 he qualified as an assistant missionary and in 1871 was admitted to full status in the Methodist ministry. His labours were chiefly among tribes on the banks of the Waipa river who were disaffected towards the government. His powerful influence was exerted with success to suppress the spirit of rebellion. He died in Dec 1884.

M.A.R.P.

Reference: Volume 2, page 78

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