Darkness finally enveloped Te Aro Flats; the watery moonlight provided only enough illumination to see indistinct shadows moving slowly through rows of neatly laid crops. The occasional voice could be heard as the men exchanged a pleasantry or grumbled about being hungry or bored. They all carried muskets and were instructed to warn away any intruders, shooting only if threatened.

Not far away, dozens of eyes watched the unsuspecting guards. Minarapa and a group of men waited in ...