Maori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand, and their story is both long and intriguing. On the basis of oral records, archaeological finds and genetic analyses, historical treatises place the arrival of Maori in New Zealand in the thirteenth century AD.
The origin of Maori has been reliably traced to the islands of Eastern Polynesia, and their journey to New Zealand occurred in a number of epic waka (canoe) voyages over a significant period of time. These journeys established Maori as daring and resourceful adventurers, and as one of the greatest navigating peoples of all time.
Maori Culture
Contemporary Maori culture has been shaped by the traditions of its rich cultural heritage, with an outward view of the challenges faced by indigenous peoples in a global society.
Defining aspects of Maori culture include art, legend, tattoo (moko), performances (notably kapa haka), customs, hospitality and community. Since the early 1980s Maori culture has undergone a renaissance. The regeneration of interest in Maori culture has extended to language, and Maori language programs (such as kohanga reo) are now flourishing.
Please take some time to explore this website and learn more about this fascinating and vibrant culture.
Maori Business
In tandem with the re-emergence of Maori culture has been an expansion of the Maori business sector. Traditional areas of business for Maori have been agriculture, forestry and fisheries, but diversification is now underway into other sectors such as horticulture, wine, energy, renewables, information technology and large-scale tourism.
The asset base of Maori businesses has been augmented in recent years with settlements from initial claims made by Maori iwi (tribes) under the Treaty of Waitangi, and these settlements are assisting Maori businesses in their diversification goals.
The development of future strategies for Maori business is now a key focus, and Te Puni Kokiri (the Ministry of Maori Development), has been central in this process (see the report from Te Puni Kokiri For Maori Future Makers).
Maori Business Networks
The Federation of Maori Authorities is New Zealand’s largest Maori business network. The primary objective of the Federation of Maori Authorities is to foster and promote the development, sound management, and economic advancement of Maori Authorities.
