The weather cleared as the sun rose and people began to gather for the 159^th annual commemoration of the Battle of Te Ranga at its historic landmark in Pyes Pa this morning.

It was a successful turnout, with more than 100 attendees including Māori, Pākehā and tamariki from local primary and high schools.

The Battle of Te Ranga occurred on June 21, 1864, and has been described as one of the bloodiest of the New Zealand campaigns.

More than 100 Māori, including the chivalrous Henare Taratoa, were killed or mortally wounded at Te Ranga, as were 13 British troops. The visiting iwi also suffered heavy casualties, which contributed to their subsequent enthusiasm for the Pai Marire insurgency.

The ceremony began at 7.30am this morning, opening with waiata performed by whānau and tamariki followed by a karakia.

Des Tata then proceeded with kaikōrero expressing the importance of gathering in remembrance of what happened on this day and place 159 years ago.

Des expressed his gratitude for the number of attendees that had gathered to commemorate the battle, extending an invitation to join next year's commemoration gathering.

'We would like neighboring hapū to come and also speak next year at this commemoration, so they can also speak their story.”

Western Bay of Plenty District Mayor James Denyer was attending the commemoration for the first time.

'Today we remember the tragic events of the battle, the courage, the bravery and the sacrifice and the many who fell.

'It's good to learn the history, and understand, and be with the people as they commemorate the fallen and what happened."

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is involved with funding the restoration for this historic landmark, with concept plans currently being discussed.

'It is encouraging with this new development that it will see more Māori and Pākehā visiting the battle site, and encourage the community to visit and learn more about the history of the Battle of Te Ranga," says Mayor Denyer.

Development of the area includes making the historic site more accessible to the public, with trees and a car park to encourage Māori and Pākehā to spend more time learning about the importance of the battle.