A series of three free public history lectures starts on Sunday evening, providing an opportunity to learn about how Tauranga city, as we know it today, was formed.

Stepping back in time to 1845, the free Pukehinahina Summer Lecture Series 2023 in Gate Pā will cover important and critical moments including wars, battles and the Treaty of Waitangi.

All lectures are at St. Georges Anglican Church, 1 Church Street, Gate Pa. The church sits on the site of the Battle of Pukehinahina - Gate Pā, one of the most significant events in the history of Tauranga.

'Each year we try to offer free lectures to help people understand our history and how it shapes our present,” says Dr Cliff Simons.

Cliff is a well-known historian, speaker and author who specialises in New Zealand's colonial and military history.

'This year we are offering three lectures on the evenings of January 22, January 29, and February 12.

'They are all at 7pm. Each talk will last about two hours.”

The first talk will be given by Cliff on ‘The Northern War 1845 – 46' exploring the story within its historical context so there is better understanding about the ongoing legacy today.

The second lecture by Dr Alistair Reese is on the ‘Treaty of Waitangi: He Tatau Pounamu'. Alistair is a well-known farmer, historian, public theologian and author who specializes in reconciliation work. He will be exploring the Te Tiriti o Waitangi through a reconciliatory lens.

The third lecture by Cliff will be on ‘The Battles of Gate Pā – Pukehinahina and Te Ranga' and understanding their place in Tauranga today.

'We operate with the kaupapa of - let everyone who enters here be reconciled,” says Cliff. 'We offer these lectures to help people be well informed as we continue to debate how Māori and non-Māori can work together for the common good of all in Aotearoa- New Zealand.”

There may be an opportunity for questions at the end of each presentation. A koha – donation – will be collected at the door to help cover the costs.

The Northern War 1845 – 46 with Dr Cliff Simons, 7pm, Sunday January 22.

Treaty of Waitangi: He Tatau Pounamu viewing the Treaty through a reconciliatory lens with Dr. Alistair Reese, 7pm, Sunday January 29.

The Battles of Gate Pā - Pukehinahina and Te Ranga with Dr Cliff Simons, 7pm, Sunday February 12.