Pōkeno, New Zealand
Queen’s
Redoubt
One of New Zealand’s largest European campaign forts, at the heart of the 1863 Waikato War. A living site of memory, courage, and consequence.
1862
Year built
8,360 m²
Fortification area
450
Garrison soldiers
Established 1862
Waikato War
New Zealand Wars
General Cameron’s HQ
450 Soldiers
Great South Road
Pōkeno Heritage
Māori & Pākehā History
Our mission
Protecting a pivotal chapter in New Zealand history
Queen’s Redoubt, in Pōkeno, is an historic place of great importance. The New Zealand Wars mark a defining change in the history of this country, and Queen’s Redoubt was the launching pad for the July 1863 British invasion that began the Waikato War.
Knowledge of this important part of our history — the courage and sacrifice, and hopes and dreams, of Māori and Pākehā alike — should not just enrich our lives, but also encourage understanding of New Zealand in the 21st century.
The Queen’s Redoubt Trust works to ensure this site remains accessible, understood, and valued by all New Zealanders and visitors to the country.
Trust objectives
1
To preserve and maintain for the benefit of the public the site of the Queen’s Redoubt, Pōkeno.
2
To make Queen’s Redoubt accessible by developing the historic site as a major educational and visitor destination.
3
To promote knowledge and understanding of the 19th century New Zealand Wars between Māori and Europeans, and their consequences.
New Zealand Wars
The road
to Waikato
From July 1863 through the Battle of Rangiriri, Queen’s Redoubt served as General Cameron’s headquarters — the nerve centre of Britain’s largest military campaign in New Zealand.
1840
Treaty of Waitangi signed, formalising British presence in New Zealand.
1858
Pōtatau Te Wherowhero proclaimed Māori King, establishing an independent Māori state.
1861
Construction of the Great South Road, ordered by Governor Grey to move British troops south from Auckland.
1862
Construction begins. Over 400 troops build the redoubt at Pōkeno.
12 July 1863
The 14th Regiment crosses the Mangatawhiri River — the Waikato War begins.
Nov 1863
Battle of Rangiriri. Cameron’s HQ moves forward.
1867
Military vacates. The earthworks begin their long sleep.
2003
Queen’s Redoubt Trust established. Site acquired for public preservation.
“The force at Queen’s Redoubt would be immediately available for a forward movement, and the position itself become favourable for the formation of a military depôt.”
Colonel Gamble, Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General, 1862
Plan your visit
Come to Pōkeno
At the junction of State Highways 1 and 2, south of Auckland — accessible for travellers, families, and school groups.
Location & directions
22 Great South Road, Pōkeno. Easily accessible from Auckland and Hamilton.
Opening hours
Open 10am–2pm every Sunday, coinciding with the Pōkeno Market. Group visits by arrangement.
Education centre
Tailored programmes for schools, families, and researchers covering the New Zealand Wars.
Books for sale
Publications on the New Zealand Wars, the Waikato campaign, and the Redoubt’s history.
Get in touch
Bookings, research inquiries, and general questions — the Trust is happy to help.
The earthworks
Restoration & the physical site
Earthworks & restoration
The south-eastern portions carefully restored, returning the ditch and parapet to their 1863 form.
Aerial photos & maps
Aerial photography reveals the full square plan and bastion corners of this rare surviving fortification.
Land description
The Trust acquired a major portion of the site in 2003, with the core fortification area under ongoing stewardship.
Concept plan
A long-term vision for developing the site as a visitor destination — new interpretation, improved access.
Research strategy
Archaeological, documentary, and photographic research deepening our understanding of the site.
Reports & publications
A growing library of reports covering the site’s archaeology, history, and conservation.
Publications
Books for sale
Published by the Trust and sold directly — each title supports the preservation of the site.
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Diary of an Anonymous Soldier
A first-hand account of life as a British soldier during the New Zealand Wars, drawn from a recently discovered diary. An intimate and often surprising window into the…
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The Role of Blockhouses During the New Zealand Wars and Afterwards
An examination of the blockhouse — a key feature of New Zealand Wars fortifications — exploring its origins in European military practice, its development in the New Zealand…
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A History of Queen’s Redoubt and the Invasion of the Waikato
A comprehensive history of Queen’s Redoubt and its central role in the 1863 Invasion of the Waikato. Drawing on original documents, photographs, and archaeological evidence, this book tells…
Get involved
Be part of the story
The Queen’s Redoubt Trust relies on the support of the community to preserve and share this remarkable site.
Friends of Queen’s Redoubt
Join the Friends group — receive updates, event invitations, and the satisfaction of contributing to something lasting.
Newsletter
Stay connected with restoration updates, event announcements, historical discoveries, and community stories.
Get in touch
Contact the Trust
Whether you’re planning a visit, conducting research, or looking to support the Trust’s work, we’d love to hear from you.