Māori identity

Māori identity encompasses the cultural, social, and spiritual essence of the Indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. It includes their language (te reo Māori), customs (tikanga), traditional beliefs, kinship ties (whānau), and connection to the land (whenua). Māori identity is a sense of belonging and pride rooted in history, shared values, and communal practices. It evolves through intergenerational transmission, embracing modern expressions while honoring ancestral traditions. This identity is vital for maintaining Māori culture, sovereignty, and resilience within New Zealand’s diverse society.