Ngāti Ruanui is a Māori iwi traditionally based in the Taranaki region of New Zealand.

Even amidst tribal warfare, Ngāti Ruanui managed to build a successful society.

In 1860, when Te Āti Awa engaged in battle with the British Crown, Ngāti Ruanui sent fighters to support them.

At least 10 members of Ngāti Ruanui and Ngāruahine died during the First Taranaki War, mostly during the defense of Waireka on 28 March 1860, including Te Rei Hanataua, chief of Tāngahoe hapū.

[4] In 1868, notable resistance was provided by the tribal leader Tītokowaru against Crown troops approaching from the south.

In 1996, the Waitangi Tribunal determined that the Crown had acted unfairly in its conflict with Ngāti Ruanui.