Williment New Zealand Experience Services

New Zealand History and Culture

Maori History

It is believed the first inhabitants of New Zealand, the Maori, arrived from the Melanesian Islands in large ocean sailing canoes (waka) approximately 1000 years ago. Remarkably they navigated over thousands of miles of ocean, relying on their knowledge of the ocean and their awareness of astrological formations. Maori adapted to their new land almost instantly, and built a complex and sophisticated society in only a few centuries. They named the country Aotearoa (Land of the Long White Cloud).

Archaeological evidence suggests that the first Maori arrivals settled in the South Island, although the majority later settled in the North Island. Their rich cultural heritage including song, dance, traditional customs, crafts, and social systems is unique in the world.

Traditional Maori culture includes beliefs in gods and goddesses for different spheres of life. Karakia (prayers) are an important part of Maori ceremonies, including the welcome to a marae. The traditional Maori welcome involves dance, song, speeches, and a formal challenge; after it is over the manuhiri (visitors) and tangata whenua (host tribe) hongi (greet with pressing of noses).

The Treaty of Waitangi

The first European to sight New Zealand was the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642. However, he did not actually set foot on New Zealand soil due to ferocious attacks by the Maori. In 1769 the British explorer James Cook landed on the east coast of the North Island, the first of three visits.

With remarkable accuracy Cook charted the three main islands of New Zealand and was able to trade with several Maori tribes. European migration began soon after; whalers, sealers and explorers began to use New Zealand as a base. Due to the growing number of European settlers, the introduction of muskets, diseases and trading disputes, land wars in the North Island followed.

By 1838, Maori in the Bay of Islands were seeking a form of protection from the waves of American and European sailors. In 1840 Captain William Hobson was sent to New Zealand to acquire sovereignty through a treaty with the Maori chiefs. Signed on February 6, 1840 at Waitangi by a number of Maori Chiefs and the British, the Treaty of Waitangi is an agreement between the two, establishing British law whilst retaining Maori authority over their land, fisheries and culture and granting Maori the rights and privileges of British citizens.

Most of the European settlers who arrived in New Zealand between 1840 and 1900 were English or Scottish, with a number of Irish and some Welsh. There was also a large amount of Dutch immigration, and many European countries are well represented.

Today, the majority of New Zealanders are of British decent. Maori are the country's largest minority, approximately 15% of the current population (well over 500,000). Polynesian immigration from South Pacific Islands was significant and in more recent years, Asian and Indian immigration has also increased.

In 1975 the Waitangi Tribunal was established to address outstanding issues and claims under the Treaty. Debates continue over the correct interpretation of the Treaty. Today, Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites. The anniversary of the signing of The Treaty, known as Waitangi Day (6 February), is a national holiday.