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. Polynesian migration from Hawaiki.
. Early settlement in Aotearoa (New Zealand)
. Development of iwi (tribal) identities
. Oral traditions and whakapapa (genealogy) established
. First adaptation to New Zealand’s environment. -
Widespread exploration and settlement of Aotearoa. Development of distinct iwi and hapū. Fortified pā (villages) and advanced horticulture. Expansion of Māori social structures and practices. Rich oral histories, carving, weaving, and art forms flourish.
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Māori society thriving with strong tikanga (customs) and mana. First European contact: 1642: Abel Tasman sights New Zealand. 1769: Captain James Cook arrives – begins regular European contact. Introduction of European tools, technology, and new foods. Trade between Māori and Europeans grows. Inter-iwi conflict intensifies with access to muskets (Musket Wars).
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1840: Signing of the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi). British colonisation and major land loss for Māori. Land wars and marginalisation of Māori communities. Māori cultural and political resistance. Ongoing Māori Renaissance (language revival, cultural identity, and legal recognition). Treaty settlements and recognition of Māori rights in modern Aotearoa.