Why maoris came to nz

The original Polynesian settlers discovered New Zealand during planned voyages of exploration, navigating by ocean currents, the winds, and stars. Traditions tell of the legendary navigator - Kupe who discovered Aotearoa New Zealand.

Some time later the first small groups arrived from Polynesia. They wove fishing nets from harakeke flax , and carved fishhooks from bone and stone. They hunted native birds with a range of clever traps and snares.

They also ate native vegetables, roots and berries. Kete were used to carry food, which was often stored in a pataka — a storehouse raised on stilts. The early settlers lived in small hunting groups. Seals and the large, flightless moa bird were the most hunted, until moa were hunted to extinction.

The Polynesian dog and rat were also brought, but the domestic pigs and chickens of the Pacific Islands were either not brought or did not survive the journey. Their life expectancy was similar to that of Europeans at that time about years of age. Our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy explain how we use your data and who our partners are.

In addition to above, we use other cookies and analytics to provide a better site experience. To view cookie details and how to opt-out, please see our Cookie Policy. We use cookies to provide you with a better experience on this site. Keep browsing if you're happy with this. We also use cookies to show you the best of New Zealand on other platforms. See our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy to understand how you can manage cookies.

Maori warriors paddle a traditional waka canoe in Rotorua, New Zealand. By Destination Rotorua. By Sara Orme. By Bay of Islands.

Subscriber sign in You could not be signed in, please check and try again. Username Please enter your Username. Password Please enter your Password. Forgot password? Don't have an account? Sign in via your Institution. You could not be signed in, please check and try again.

Sign in with your library card Please enter your library card number. Search within work. Show Summary Details Publishing Information.