The "Cinderella" of New Zealand: race and class in New Plymouth 1840-1858

Abstract

This thesis examines how the dominant ideology and social structure of New Plymouth society influenced race relations in North Taranaki between 1841 and 1858. The first section outlines the way colonists identified certain external enemies of their society, who were subverting their plans to create an agricultural utopia in Taranaki. The actions of these social enemies explained why New Plymouth was regarded by colonists as the "cinderella" of New Zealand's provinces. The first section argues New Plymouth culture was unprepared for the upheavals it faced in the new world and was left socially and economically paralysed. The second component of this thesis challenges the dominant colonial view by highlighting the colonists' own contribution to New Plymouth's economic and social woes. This section argues that the greatest enemy of New Plymouth's society was pluralism - difference from the dominant social norm. Those groups who challenged New Plymouth's dominant ideology or social structure, or who maintained autonomy from society were ostracised, shunned or attacked. Because colonial society was unable to adapt to Taranaki conditions or accept difference from the dominant social norm colonisation in Taranaki proved largely unsuccessful. The continued decline of New Plymouth in comparison with the rest of New Zealand weighed heavily on the conscience of New Plymouth's leadership. Unable to reverse significantly New Plymouth's economic decline, colonists' self worth and social position appeared threatened. In response colonists did not question whether their economic and social goals were achievable, instead they argued that the imposition of English authority outside the bounds of settlement would restore prosperity and prevent a wider race war.