16 November

New Zealand officially becomes British colony

1840 New Zealand officially becomes British colony

New Zealand became a separate colony within the British Empire. North, South and Stewart islands were to be known respectively as the provinces of New Ulster, New Munster and New Leinster. Read more...
Hamiora Pere executed for treason

1869 Hamiora Pere executed for treason

Hamiora Pere was hanged at the Terrace Gaol, Wellington. He is the only New Zealander to have been executed after being convicted of treason. Read more...
First conscription ballot

1916 First conscription ballot

The Military Service Act passed on 1 August 1916 had made all healthy New Zealand men of military age (20 to 45) liable for active service overseas. Read more...