Commemorating New Zealand's Wars

Saturday marked the first ever official commemoration of the New Zealand Wars. The New Zealand Wars were a series of battles that took place in the 19th century between Government troops and Maori. Lives were lost on both sides, communities terrorized, while land was confiscated in what was a defining time in this country’s short history. Commemorations to mark the wars were held around the country with gatherings taking place at some of the key sites of the battles. Sam Smith spoke to Auckland University historian Dr. Aroha Harris about the commemorations and why it is important that we remember this time of our history.