Te Rangikāheke

He descended from the iwi (tribe) of Ngāti Rangiwewehi from Awahou on the northern shores of Lake Rotorua in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

During this period, Te Rangikāheke wrote numerous manuscripts that provided detailed accounts of Māori mythology, customs, and social structures.

Te Rangikāheke authored over 800 pages of Māori manuscripts, covering language, genealogies, legends, traditions, contemporary history, political commentary, customs, proverbs, songs, literary critique, and autobiography.

Te Rangikāheke made his first visits to Auckland, the capital, in 1842 and 1843, recorded by Lady Martin, the wife of the then Chief Justice, on whom he called.

Several newspapers published notices and obituaries highlighting his collaboration with Grey in compiling Māori traditions, his prominence in political, social, and literary spheres, his connections with governors, politicians, and civil servants, and his exceptional oratory skills.

Today, scholars and descendants alike continue to study and celebrate his work, ensuring that the rich heritage of the Māori people remains vibrant and accessible.