Tāwhiao, the second Māori King from the Kīngitanga movement, arrived in Plymouth to formally request the protection of Queen Victoria for the Māori people. His journey was motivated by the ongoing conflicts in New Zealand during the 19th century, where land confiscations and battles against colonial forces were prevalent. The Kīngitanga sought to unify Māori tribes and resist European encroachment on their lands. Tāwhiao's visit to England was a strategic attempt to gain international support and highlight the grievances faced by Māori tribes. The arrival was greeted with both curiosity and concern, as it brought attention to the Māori sovereignty struggle and their desire for recognition by the British Empire. In a time where colonial expansion was at its peak, Tāwhiao's mission represented resilience and a bid for legitimacy. His presence in England was symbolic, seeking not only protection but also justice for the Māori people. He met various officials and engaged in discussions pertaining to Māori rights and heritage in a European context, bridging cultural divides during a tumultuous era.