 On 4 October, he led the Ngāti Kahungunu contingent against Te Kooti's redoubt at the Battle of Te Porere.The battle was a joint effort by Tomoana, Te Keepa Te Rangihiwinui of Te Arawa, and Major Thomas McDonnell who led the government forces.The storming of the redoubt was successful, and Te Kooti was wounded during the battle.