What is the original inhabitants of new zealand

The original inhabitants of New Zealand were the indigenous Polynesian people, known as the Māori. They arrived in New Zealand around the 13th century, and their ancestors had migrated from the Pacific Islands, specifically from the eastern islands of Polynesia, such as Hawaii, Easter Island, and Tahiti.

The Māori people brought with them their language, culture, and customs, which were shaped by their experiences in the Pacific Islands. They established a thriving society in New Zealand, with their own system of governance, social structures, and spiritual beliefs.

The Māori people developed a rich and complex culture, with a strong connection to the land and the natural environment. They built settlements, known as pā, which were often fortified with palisades and defensive walls. They also developed a system of agriculture, fishing, and trade, and had a strong tradition of storytelling, music, and dance.

The Māori people had a deep spiritual connection to the land, which they believed was inhabited by ancestral spirits and gods. They believed that the land was a gift from their ancestors, and that they had a responsibility to care for it and protect it.

The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century had a profound impact on the Māori people. Many Māori died from diseases brought over by Europeans, to which they had no immunity. The European settlers also took over much of the land, leading to conflicts and disputes over land ownership.

Today, the Māori people are an important part of New Zealand's culture and identity. They have a distinct language, known as Te Reo Māori, and a rich cultural heritage. Many Māori people continue to practice their traditional customs and traditions, and there are many efforts to preserve and promote Māori culture and language.

Some of the key events and milestones in Māori history include:

• The arrival of the Māori people in New Zealand, around the 13th century
• The development of Māori society and culture, including the establishment of pā and the development of agriculture and trade
• The arrival of European settlers, in the early 19th century
• The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, in 1840, which established British sovereignty over New Zealand and recognized Māori ownership of their land
• The New Zealand Wars, which took place from the 1840s to the 1870s, and were fought between the British government and Māori tribes over land ownership and sovereignty
• The establishment of the Māori King Movement, in the late 19th century, which aimed to establish a Māori monarchy and assert Māori sovereignty over New Zealand
• The development of Māori language and culture, including the establishment of Māori language immersion schools and the promotion of Māori arts and crafts.

Overall, the Māori people have a rich and complex history, and their culture and traditions continue to play an important role in New Zealand's identity and society today.