The multi-faceted Charles Heaphy made quite an impact on colonial New Zealand as an artist, explorer, soldier and colonial administrator. He was the first colonial soldier to win the Victoria Cross.
Charles Heaphy
Personal details
Full Name:
Charles Heaphy
Lifetime:
1820 – 3 Aug 1881
Biography
Events In History
11 February 1864
Recommended for a Victoria Cross after rescuing a soldier under fire at Waiari, near Pirongia, Charles Heaphy was given the decoration in 1867.
19 May 1846
This journey was part of Thomas Brunner's epic 1846-48 exploration of the South Island. He was guided by Kehu of Ngāti Tūmatakōkiri and accompanied by Charles Heaphy, a draftsman and artist with the New Zealand Company.
17 August 1839
The sailing ship Tory dropped anchor in Queen Charlotte Sound to pick up fresh water, food and wood before proceeding to Port Nicholson (Wellington Harbour).
Main image: The fight at the 2nd parapet at Waiari
Charles Heaphy’s sketch of the fight at the 2nd Parapet, Waiari, 11 February 1864. This illustration shows six European soldiers on a small hilltop, repulsing an attack by 13 Māori, several of whom have been killed.
