New Zealand Company

The New Zealand Company was founded in the 1830s to promote the settlement of New Zealand by British citizens. It aimed to buy land from Māori chiefs and create a colony, primarily to address overcrowding in Britain and advance economic interests. The company's activities led to the establishment of several settlements, notably Wellington. However, its operations faced criticism for land disputes and treatment of Māori. Eventually, its role diminished as the New Zealand government took over land issues, and in 1852, the company was dissolved. Today, it is remembered for its impact on New Zealand's colonial history.