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The settlers cast covetous eyes on the potentially rich Wairau Valley, claimed by the New Zealand Company by right of purchase, although the validity of this purchase was disputed by Te Rauparaha. An attempt by Captain Arthur Wakefield and a band of settlers to force the issue ended disastrously. The Wairau Massacre was a serious blow to the Company: immigration fell off and the Company's financial situation deteriorated. Plans for a further settlement were shelved, and in 1844 the Company suspended operations. |
