Ketemarae Road runs inland from Surf Highway 45 near Ohawe Road, south Taranaki, through the village of Normanby and connects with Mountain Road. It acts as a major transport route for south Taranaki farmers.
It refers to pā located near Normanby. It is the marae of the Nga Ruahine iwi. Historically it formed part of the Ketemarae village, which consisted of a 4 palisade pā, agricultural cultivations and several whare and in its heyday was a wealthy village, with its rich soil and bountiful cultivations. However the pā was destroyed by Chute in January 1866 during the South Taranaki War. Today there are remnants of the village and associated buildings, however many are in poor repair.
The pā site marks the entrance to the pre-European Whakaahurangi Track, which created a vital link between the tribes of north Taranaki and south Taranaki. The track runs from Normanby towards Eltham, north of Stratford and Inglewood and exits near Lepperton. The location of this track and other pre-European tracks were recorded by H.M. Skeet in 1907.
It was also used during the South Taranaki Wars. Following Chutes annihilation of Ketemarae, he used this track to march approximately 500 troops to New Plymouth. It is suggested that this march was an attempt by Chute to prove his military ability in difficult bush terrain. But considering his troops arrived there 10 arduous days later, fatigued and hungry, he failed in his aspirations.
This story was originally published in the Taranaki Daily News.
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