I’m starting to play round with my existing Māori figures to see if I have enough for a 24-point taua (war-party) for use with The Men Who Would Be Kings colonial wargaming rules.
I have 48 warriors/chiefs, plus a 3-man carronade, all made by Empress Miniatures. Hopefully I’ve got enough figures for a full 24-point Māori force.
The warriors are mainly armed with muskets, but 13 have (tupara) shotguns, and 10 are armed only with clubs or axes. I may mix up the weapons in the units, as I don’t think units would’ve all had the same weapons.
The carronade will only be of limited use, mainly to defend a pā.
I’m not sure yet what I’ll be classing each unit as under the TMWWBK rules, although ‘Irregular Infantry’ 12-man units (at 4 points a unit) rather than ‘Tribal Infantry’ 16-man units (at 3 points a unit) seems the way to go. I’m still pondering how many optional points up or down I should adjust them to best replicate the Māori fighting style.
DRESSING THE LINES 
Good work, Roly. Fab!
Thanks, Vince. Tempted yet?!
They are looking good. Is there a book you would recommend to read about these wars?
The book I mention in the link below is my best recommendation. It is out of print, but appears second-hand from time to time. My spare copy has long gone, unfortunately: https://arteis.wordpress.com/2012/01/22/colonial-new-zealand-wars-book-seeking-good-home/
Thank you. I see what you mean about price!
Ntw, one will turn up now I know what I am looking for; they always do.
Regards
Also, the Osprey on the New Zealand Wars is a good primer, and has loads of useful info on uniforms too. https://arteis.wordpress.com/2013/04/04/review-of-osprey-the-new-zealand-wars-1820-72/
I know nothing about Maoris but can appreciate beautiful figures when i see them, well done.
Thank you for that, Chris.
They look great mate
Thanks!
Looking good. I will be interested to hear you thoughts on TMWWBK vs SP2 for NZ Wars.
I am probably not the best to comment on one ruleset vs another because (so far) I actually hardly play any games at all. I’m more of a collector and painter and dreamer …
I shall watching with interest Roly.
Nicely done! Your bases really capture the feel of NZ and complement your well painted miniatures!