A war-party from the Bay of Islands, in which were two of Hongi's sons, ventured, though only 140 strong, to sail down the Bay of Plenty, slaying and plundering as they went.

Twice they landed, and when they had slain and eaten more than their own number the more prudent would have turned back.

But a blind wizard, a prophet of prodigious repute, who was with them, predicted victory and speedy reinforcement, and urged them to hold on their way.

Disembarking on an islet in the bay, the inhabitants of which had fled, they encamped among the deserted gardens.

Looking out next morning, they saw the sea blackened with war-canoes.