Māori people

The word “Māori” is the name given to the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand and their language. They came to New Zealand from eastern Polynesia [for as far as it is known] between 1280 and 1300 and quickly moved to places all over the country. They developed their own culture and traditions and up until the European settlers came, they lived an isolated life, far away from trouble spots anywhere around the globe. Because of new technologies and diseases the white settlers brought with them, the Māori population declined fast and they lost much of their land. The population began to increase again from the late 19th century, and a cultural revival began in the 1960s. During the 1990s and 2000s, the New Zealand government negotiated with the Māori to agree on compensation. These agreements are the crown of the guarantees set out in the famous “Treaty of Waitangi” contract from 1840. Today, visitors can experience Māori traditions and culture in a number of ways: why not enjoy a traditional Māori Hangi and Feast (dinner), or visit a moving Powhir (welcoming ceremony). Whatever the choice choice, guests to New Zealand will find Māori people most welcoming who very often treat visitors like family.