When the Hauhau arrived in Waiapu Valley, Mōkena Kōhere, a senior "rangatira" of Ngāti Porou, had appealed to Donald McLean, the superintendent for the Hawke's Bay Province, for assistance. Much needed supplies were subsequently sent along with one hundred militia, who arrived at Te Hatepe "pā", to where Ropata and his party had withdrawn. His force now numbered around 85, following the arrival of Te Aowera reinforcements. The arrival of personnel of the Volunteer Force, New Zealand's militia, on 13 July further boosted numbers. This proved timely for the Hauhau attacked the next day and were driven off.