The Maori

The Māori are the Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, arriving from eastern Polynesia around the 13th century. They developed a rich culture characterized by distinctive language, art, dance (haka), and spiritual beliefs centered on nature and ancestors. Māori society traditionally organized into iwi (tribes) and hapū (sub-tribes), with a strong focus on communal relationships. Today, Māori continue to preserve their language, traditions, and identity while actively participating in New Zealand's social, political, and cultural life. Their history and practices are integral to New Zealand's national identity and ongoing efforts towards reconciliation and cultural recognition.