From 1863 the army , working Action with greater numbers of troops and heavy artillery , systematically took Removing possession of Māori land by driving Motion off the inhabitants , adopting Choosing a `` scorched earth '' strategy of laying waste to Māori villages and cultivations , with attacks Attack on villages , whether warlike or otherwise .

The invasion Attack was further complicated by the scorched earth strategy formulated Communication by Peter and his generals .

In addition , civilian farms and livestock were destroyed Destroying as part of a scorched earth policy .