This Maori land was vested in the former Mataura Borough Council by the Kai-Tahu, Kati-Memoe, and Waitaha Maori, to create a public reserve in memory of an historic battle which took place on this site in 1837.
Led by Te Puehe, a force of Ngati Tama warriors from near Nelson, undertook a remarkable journey down the West Coast and over Haast Pass, in the hope of capturing the Murkhiku Lands of the Mataura. Their initial foray was successful and they captured the unsuspecting inhabitants of the village of Tuturau.
However this success was only short lived as the famous Chief Tuhawaiki, who resided further south on Ruapuki Island, heard about the invasion and gathered a party of warriors to counter attack.
Here at Tuturau, Tuhawaiki's warriors surrounded Te Puehe's party and attacked. Te Puehe was slain and the rest of his warriors were taken prisoner, some to be later released and others committed to slavery on Ruapuki Island.