Cyprian Bridge, View of the left angle of Heke's pah at Ohaiawai that was stormed on the 1st July, 1845.
A trench between 5 and 6 feet deep ran around the perimeter of the pā just inside the inner fence. Firing steps were cut into the side of this trench. Men could stand in safety on the floor of the trench while loading and then step up to fire through gaps in the palisade wall. Resting their guns on the ground as they fired increased the accuracy of their fire. Note the Māori fighter firing alongside the British.
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