[12][13] A substantial pā was built along Karaka Point by early Kāti Māmoe residents, and succeeding iwi took possession peacefully or otherwise.

In the summer of 1829–30, Te Ātiawa swept into Queen Charlotte Sound, attacking those in East Bay and Endeavour Inlet.

Large numbers of Rangitāne and some Ngāti Apa retreated to the Te Rae o Karaka pā, thinking it impregnable due to its sheer cliff-face.

[14] Tuiti Makitānara described insults being thrown between the attackers and defenders, whilst a group landed and took up offensive positions in the mānuka behind the pā.

Today, Rangitāne has erected a beautiful pou on the site representing the story of Kupe's battle with the giant wheke, and interpretive boards can be found describing the visible landscape features.