Rawiri Taiwhanga

Rawiri Taiwhanga (fl. 1818–1874) was a notable New Zealand tribal leader, farmer, missionary and teacher; of Māori descent, he identified with the Ngāpuhi iwi.[1] He was the father of Sydney Taiwhanga.

On 7 February 1830 he was baptised.[1] He was the first high-ranking Māori to be converted to Christianity.[2] This gave the missionary work of the Church Missionary Society led by the Rev. Henry Williams a great impetus, as it influenced many others to do the same.

References

  1. 1 2 Orange, Claudia; Wilson, Ormond. "Rawiri Taiwhanga". Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Ministry for Culture and Heritage. Retrieved December 2011.
  2. ↑ Missionary Impact > 'A high profile conversion' by Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
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