What is Pākaraka, and where is it located?

Pākaraka is a farming and lifestyle community situated on the North Island of New Zealand. It is located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of the city of Whanganui.

What were the previous names associated with the settlement of Pākaraka?

The settlement of Pākaraka has been known by several previous names. These include Okehu, Maxwelltown, and most recently, Maxwell.

What is the meaning and origin of the Māori name Pākaraka?

The Māori name Pākaraka signifies "an abundance of karaka trees." This name was known to the local Māori people for the area.

When did European settlers first establish a presence in the Pākaraka area, and what did they name the settlement?

European settlers began arriving in the area in the mid-1800s. They initially named the settlement "Maxwelltown," in honor of Sergeant George Maxwell.

What actions by Sergeant George Maxwell during Tītokowaru's War were highlighted by Colonel George Stoddart Whitmore?

Colonel George Stoddart Whitmore specifically mentioned Sergeant G. Maxwell's "extreme gallantry" during Tītokowaru's War, noting that Maxwell personally sabered two enemy combatants and shot another.

What significant detail regarding the victims of the attack involving Sergeant Maxwell was omitted from Colonel Whitmore's report?

Colonel Whitmore's report omitted the crucial detail that the party attacked by Sergeant Maxwell and his group consisted of children aged between six and twelve years old who were out hunting for pigs.

What historical work published in 1883 caused controversy among colonialists in New Zealand, and why?

George William Rusden's three-volume *History of New Zealand*, published in 1883, caused distress among colonialists due to passages that contained contentious assertions.

What specific claim did George William Rusden make in his *History of New Zealand* that led to a libel suit?

In his history, Rusden asserted that Lieutenant John Bryce and Sergeant G. Maxwell had attacked women and children at Nukumara, describing the event as them having 'cut them down gleefully and with ease'.

What was John Bryce's governmental position at the time George William Rusden published his controversial history?

At the time of the publication of Rusden's *History of New Zealand*, John Bryce held the significant position of Minister for Native Affairs.

What legal action did John Bryce take against George William Rusden, and where was the case heard?

John Bryce sued George William Rusden for libel. The case was heard in the High Court of Justice in London.

What was the outcome of the libel case brought by John Bryce against George William Rusden?

John Bryce won his libel case against George William Rusden. The court found that while Bryce was in command during the killings at Nukumara, he did not personally participate in the killings, and importantly, there were no women among the victims, contradicting Rusden's account.

What was the financial consequence for George William Rusden following the libel case?

As a result of losing the libel case, George William Rusden was ordered to pay £5,000 in damages to John Bryce, which was considered a very large sum at that time.

When did the settlement officially change its name from Maxwelltown, and what was its subsequent name before becoming Pākaraka?

The settlement was known as Maxwelltown until 1927, after which it was referred to simply as Maxwell.

What recent initiative has been undertaken regarding the name of the Maxwell settlement?

In 2020, the local hapū, Ngā Rauru, collaborated with the Whanganui District Council to pursue a change for the name of Maxwell. This initiative led to the name reverting to Pākaraka.

What made the Pākaraka area attractive for pig hunting in the 1960s?

In the 1960s, the Pākaraka area was known for offering good pig hunting opportunities due to the prevalence of dense local scrubland.

What are some of the amenities and attractions available in the Pākaraka community?

The town offers several amenities and attractions, including the local art gallery known as Black Sands Studio, a church, a swimming pool, and the recently renovated Birch Park Pool, which is located towards the Taranaki region. The area is also characterized by significant forest cover, and Maxwell beach is a popular spot, featuring a small waterfall that flows from the farmland to the shore.

What is the geographical area covered by the SA1 statistical area for Pākaraka, and what larger statistical area does it belong to?

The SA1 statistical area that encompasses Pākaraka covers an area of 58.27 square kilometers (22.50 square miles). This specific SA1 area is part of the broader Mowhanau statistical area.

What was the population of Pākaraka recorded in the 2018 New Zealand census, and how did this compare to previous census years?

According to the 2018 New Zealand census, the population of the Pākaraka SA1 area was 147. This represented a decrease of 42 people (22.2%) since the 2013 census and a decrease of 45 people (23.4%) since the 2006 census.

How were the households in Pākaraka structured in terms of gender in the 2018 census?

In the 2018 census, Pākaraka comprised 57 households. These households contained 81 males and 69 females, resulting in a sex ratio of approximately 1.17 males per female.

What was the median age of residents in Pākaraka in 2018, and how did it compare to the national median age?

The median age for residents in Pākaraka was 39.6 years in 2018. This is notably higher than the national median age, which was 37.4 years at the same time.

Can you describe the age distribution of the population in Pākaraka as recorded in the 2018 census?

In 2018, the age distribution for Pākaraka showed that 20.4% of the population (30 people) were under 15 years old. Another 16.3% (24 people) were between 15 and 29 years old. The largest group, 49.0% (72 people), were aged between 30 and 64 years, and 16.3% (24 people) were 65 years or older.

What were the primary ethnic affiliations reported by residents of Pākaraka in the 2018 census?

The 2018 census data for Pākaraka indicated that the predominant ethnic affiliation was European/Pākehā, reported by 93.9% of residents. Other reported ethnicities included Māori (10.2%), Pacific peoples (2.0%), and Asian (2.0%). It is noted that individuals could identify with more than one ethnicity.

What was the religious affiliation landscape in Pākaraka according to the 2018 census?

In the 2018 census, a significant portion of Pākaraka residents, 61.2%, reported having no religious affiliation. Among those who did state a religion, Christianity was the most common (32.7%), followed by Hinduism (2.0%), Islam (2.0%), and Buddhism (2.0%). Some residents also identified with other religions.

What were the educational attainment levels for residents aged 15 and over in Pākaraka in 2018?

In 2018, 15.4% of Pākaraka residents aged 15 and over (18 people) held a bachelor's degree or a higher level of qualification. Conversely, 17.9% (21 people) reported having no formal qualifications.

How did the median income in Pākaraka in 2018 compare to the national median income in New Zealand?

The median income for individuals in Pākaraka aged 15 and over was $40,000 in 2018. This was higher than the national median income for the same age group, which was $31,800.

What proportion of Pākaraka residents earned above $70,000 annually in 2018, compared to the national average?

In 2018, 12.8% of Pākaraka residents aged 15 and over reported an annual income exceeding $70,000. This figure was lower than the national percentage, where 17.2% of residents in the same age group earned over $70,000.

Describe the employment status of individuals aged 15 and over in Pākaraka based on the 2018 census data.

According to the 2018 census, 56.4% of Pākaraka residents aged 15 and over (66 people) were employed full-time. An additional 25.6% (30 people) were employed part-time, suggesting a workforce that is largely engaged but with a considerable number working non-full-time hours.

What are the traditional meeting places for the Ngā Rauru hapū in Pākaraka, and which specific hapū is associated with them?

The traditional meeting places for the Ngā Rauru hapū in Pākaraka are the Pākaraka Marae and the Te Whānau Pani II and III meeting houses. These facilities serve the Ngā Rauru hapū of Ngāti Maika II.

What are the geographical coordinates for Pākaraka?

The geographical coordinates for Pākaraka are recorded as 39°49′16″S 174°51′42″E, or in decimal degrees, 39.821030°S and 174.861786°E.

What is the significance of the image depicting a church in Pākaraka?

The image shows a church located within the Pākaraka community, serving as a visual representation of a local landmark or building within the settlement.

What is the administrative context of Pākaraka within New Zealand's governance structure?

Pākaraka is situated within the Manawatū-Whanganui Region and falls under the jurisdiction of the Whanganui District Council. The Whanganui District is the local government area it belongs to.

What is the historical context of the name "Maxwell" and its connection to the events of Tītokowaru's War?

The name "Maxwell" originates from Sergeant George Maxwell, who was recognized for his actions during Tītokowaru's War. However, a later historical account by George William Rusden alleged that Maxwell, along with Lieutenant John Bryce, attacked women and children, a claim that led to a successful libel suit by Bryce against Rusden, highlighting the controversial nature of historical narratives and their impact on place names.

How has the population of Pākaraka changed over the period from 2006 to 2018?

The population of Pākaraka has shown a declining trend between 2006 and 2018. The population was 192 in 2006, dropped slightly to 189 in 2013, and then saw a more significant decrease to 147 in 2018. This represents a decrease of 23.4% from 2006 to 2018.

What does the term "Pākaraka" mean in the Māori language, and what does this suggest about the area's historical environment?

The name "Pākaraka" translates from Māori to "an abundance of karaka trees." This suggests that the area was historically characterized by a significant presence of the karaka tree, a native New Zealand species.

What specific historical event is linked to the naming of the settlement as "Maxwelltown"?

The settlement was named "Maxwelltown" by early European settlers in the mid-1800s, honoring Sergeant George Maxwell for his actions during Tītokowaru's War.

What was the nature of the libel case involving George William Rusden and John Bryce concerning events at Nukumara?

The libel case stemmed from Rusden's published assertion that Lieutenant John Bryce and Sergeant G. Maxwell had attacked and killed women and children at Nukumara. Bryce sued for libel, successfully arguing that while he was present and in command, he did not personally participate in the killings, and crucially, that no women were among the victims, thereby refuting Rusden's sensationalized account.

What is the significance of the Pākaraka Marae and its associated meeting houses?

These are traditional meeting places for the Ngā Rauru hapū of Ngāti Maika II, serving as important cultural and community centers for the local Māori population in Pākaraka.

How does the median age in Pākaraka compare to the national median age in New Zealand, and what does this suggest about the community's demographics?

In 2018, the median age in Pākaraka was 39.6 years, which is higher than the national median age of 37.4 years. This indicates that the population in Pākaraka tends to be slightly older on average compared to the general population of New Zealand.

What is the employment landscape like in Pākaraka for adults, based on 2018 census data?

In 2018, the majority of Pākaraka residents aged 15 and over were employed full-time, accounting for 56.4% of this age group. A significant portion, 25.6%, were employed part-time, suggesting a workforce that is largely engaged but with a considerable number working non-full-time hours.

What recent action has been taken to officially recognize the Māori name of the settlement?

In 2020, the local Ngā Rauru hapū partnered with the Whanganui District Council to formally change the name of Maxwell back to its original Māori name, Pākaraka, signifying a move towards cultural recognition and historical accuracy.

What is the relationship between Pākaraka and the larger Whanganui District?

Pākaraka is a community located within the Whanganui District, which is part of the Manawatū-Whanganui Region in New Zealand. The Whanganui District Council is the governing body for the area.

What does the provided map indicate about Pākaraka's location?

The map indicates the precise geographical location of Pākaraka, showing its position relative to surrounding areas and providing visual context for its placement within the Whanganui District.

What is the significance of the "hatnote" at the beginning of the article?

The hatnote serves to distinguish the article's subject, Pākaraka, from another locality with a similar name, Pakaraka, located in Northland, New Zealand, preventing potential confusion for readers.

What historical event led to the settlement being named Maxwelltown?

The settlement was named Maxwelltown by early European settlers in the mid-1800s, honoring Sergeant George Maxwell for his actions during Tītokowaru's War.

What was the outcome of the libel case concerning George William Rusden's *History of New Zealand*?

John Bryce sued George William Rusden for libel over claims made in his *History of New Zealand*. Bryce won the case in the High Court in London, resulting in Rusden's history being suppressed and Bryce being awarded £5,000 in damages.

What is the population trend in Pākaraka based on the census data from 2006, 2013, and 2018?

The census data shows a consistent decrease in population for Pākaraka. The population was 192 in 2006, dropped slightly to 189 in 2013, and then saw a more significant decrease to 147 in 2018.

What percentage of Pākaraka's population in 2018 was aged 65 or older?

In 2018, 16.3% of Pākaraka's population, which equates to 24 individuals, were aged 65 years or older.

What does the term "Pākehā" refer to in the context of Pākaraka's demographics?

In the demographic data for Pākaraka, "Pākehā" is used alongside "European" to describe the primary ethnic affiliation reported by the majority of residents (93.9% in 2018). Pākehā is a Māori term commonly used to refer to New Zealanders of European descent.

What is the median income in Pākaraka compared to the rest of New Zealand?

The median income in Pākaraka for individuals aged 15 and over was $40,000 in 2018, which is higher than the national median income of $31,800 for the same demographic group.

What is the significance of the Pākaraka Marae and Te Whānau Pani II and III meeting houses?

These are traditional meeting places for the Ngā Rauru hapū of Ngāti Maika II, serving as important cultural and community centers for the local Māori population in Pākaraka.

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Toponymy: Names and Narratives

Māori Origins

The indigenous Māori name for this locale is Pākaraka, a designation signifying an "abundance of karaka trees." The karaka tree (Corynocarpus laevigatus) is significant in Māori culture, though its berries are toxic if not prepared correctly.

European Settlement and Naming

European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s. The area was initially named "Maxwelltown" in honor of Sergeant George Maxwell. Maxwell was recognized for his actions during Tītokowaru's War. Colonel George Stoddart Whitmore commended Maxwell's "extreme gallantry" in sabering and shooting enemy combatants.

Historical Note: A later historical account by George William Rusden alleged that Sergeant Maxwell, under Lieutenant John Bryce's command, attacked a group of unarmed children aged six to twelve during a pig hunt. Bryce sued Rusden for libel, winning the case in London. The court ruled that while Bryce was in command, he did not personally participate in the killings, and crucially, the victims were not women or children as Rusden had claimed. Rusden's history was suppressed, and Bryce was awarded substantial damages.

Name Evolution and Restoration

The settlement was known as Maxwelltown until 1927, subsequently shortened to Maxwell. Recognizing the historical significance and indigenous heritage, the local Ngā Rauru hapū collaborated with the Whanganui District Council. In 2020, the community officially reinstated the original Māori name, Pākaraka, marking a significant cultural restoration.

Historical Landscape

Environment and Early Activities

During the 1960s, the area's dense local scrub provided excellent opportunities for pig hunting, a popular recreational activity. The region is characterized by its heavily forested terrain, contributing to its natural appeal.

Local Landmarks and Attractions

Pākaraka offers several points of interest for residents and visitors:

Black Sands Studio: A local art gallery showcasing regional creativity.
Church: A central community building.
Swimming Facilities: Including the Birch Park Pool, situated towards the Taranaki region.
Maxwell Beach: A popular coastal attraction.
Waterfall: A small, picturesque waterfall cascading from farmland to the shore.

Community Profile: Demographics

Population Trends

The Pākaraka area, defined by SA1 statistical boundaries, has experienced a notable population decline in recent decades. The following table illustrates the demographic shifts observed across census periods:

Year	Population	% Change p.a.
2006	192	—
2013	189	-0.22%
2018	147	-4.90%

The most recent census (2018) recorded 147 residents, representing a significant decrease of 22.2% since 2013 and 23.4% since 2006.

Societal Characteristics (2018 Census)

The community comprises 57 households with a sex ratio of 1.17 males per female. The median age is 39.6 years, slightly older than the national median of 37.4 years.

Age Distribution: 20.4% under 15, 16.3% aged 15-29, 49.0% aged 30-64, 16.3% aged 65+.
Ethnicities: Predominantly European/Pākehā (93.9%), with smaller Māori (10.2%), Pacific (2.0%), and Asian (2.0%) populations. Individuals may identify with multiple ethnicities.
Religions: 61.2% reported no religion, followed by Christian (32.7%), Hindu (2.0%), Muslim (2.0%), and Buddhist (2.0%).
Socioeconomic Indicators: The median income was $40,000 (national median $31,800). 15.4% held bachelor's degrees or higher, while 17.9% had no formal qualifications. Employment saw 56.4% working full-time and 25.6% part-time.

Cultural Heartbeat

Indigenous Heritage

Pākaraka is culturally significant as the location of the Pākaraka Marae. This marae serves as a traditional meeting ground for the Ngā Rauru hapū, specifically the Ngāti Maika II sub-group. It features the Te Whānau Pani II and III meeting houses, which are central to the community's cultural practices and governance.

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References

2018 Census place summary: Mowhanau

A full list of references for this article are available at the Pākaraka Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website regarding geographical locations, historical events, or demographic data is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional consultation. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified experts for specific needs related to New Zealand geography, history, or demographics.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Pākaraka: A Journey Through Place and Heritage

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Toponymy: Names and Narratives 🏷️

🌳 Māori Origins

⚔️ European Settlement and Naming

🔄 Name Evolution and Restoration

Historical Landscape 📜

🏞️ Environment and Early Activities

📍 Local Landmarks and Attractions

Community Profile: Demographics 👥

📊 Population Trends

👤 Societal Characteristics (2018 Census)

Cultural Heartbeat 🛖

🤝 Indigenous Heritage

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Toponymy: Names and Narratives

Māori Origins

European Settlement and Naming

Name Evolution and Restoration

Historical Landscape

Environment and Early Activities

Local Landmarks and Attractions

Community Profile: Demographics

Population Trends

Societal Characteristics (2018 Census)

Cultural Heartbeat

Indigenous Heritage

Teacher's Corner

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References

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