First in arms / Murray Moorhead.

"New Zealand's colonial fighters, Taranaki War 1860-61"--Cover subtitle.

Includes bibliographical references (p.369) and index.

Introduction -- Stand on your own defence -- We are prepared to defend ourselves -- A company of volunteers -- More complicated than ever -- You must be angry with me -- A good account of themselves -- My orders were to return by dark -- The glow of satisfaction -- Deserving of the highest commendation -- There is much illness and discontent -- The most tremulous hand -- Gold is severely censured -- Tataraimaka houses are all gone -- This is some work and no rum! -- The rubicorn -- having been crossed -- Two easy chairs and a writing table -- Your gallantry is not unappreciated -- Rather worse than common soldiers -- Sing a song of sixpence -- I must say it is work I do not admire -- Not the pleasantest work -- Nothing of importance -- Only 40 pairs of trousers! -- All sorts of rumours about peace -- Their motto would be 'conquer or die'.

"Against a rich background of survival, hardship and pent-up dissatisfaction with the British handling of Maori, the Taranaki Rifle Volunteers fought not only the enemy but their own fears as their British protectors' focus made them easy targets. Confused and angry they struggled to drag themselves together as a unit. These brave men and boys ...earned the right to have the words 'New Zealand' displayed with honour on their regimental flag. This 'battle honour' and their motto Primus in Armis (First in arms) awarded in recognition of their stand at Waireka, made the Taranaki Rifle Volunteer Corps the first New Zealand military unit to see action, in a conflict that scars the nation to this day."--Back cover.