History of New Zealand

Polynesian Migration

Famille Maori 1998-1361-139

Mission House at Kerikeri

Treatyofwaitangi

William Allsworth - The emigrants - Google Art Project

History of New Zealand

The History of New Zealand dates back to at least 700 years to when it was discovered and settled by Polynesians, who developed a distinct Māori culture centred on kinship links and land. The first European explorer to sight New Zealand was Abel Tasman in 1642. The British Colonization of New Zealand began in the early 19th century, leading to an extensive British immigration, and conflicts with Māori, notably the New Zealand Wars. The British established a colonial government in New Zealand and signed the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, considered the founding document of New Zealand. In the late 19th century, New Zealand became a self-governing dominion within the British Empire, and in 1947 it adopted the Statute of Westminster, confirming its status as an independent nation.

Pre-European History

Before the arrival of Europeans, New Zealand was inhabited by the Māori, who are believed to have arrived in New Zealand from eastern Polynesia in several waves at some time before 1300 AD. Māori society was organized into iwi (tribes) and hapū (subtribes) and was largely based on agriculture and fishing.

European Exploration

Abel Tasman was the first European to sight New Zealand in 1642, but it was not until 1769 that James Cook made the first comprehensive exploration, mapping much of the coastline. Following Cook, European whalers, traders, and missionaries arrived, significantly altering the Māori way of life.

Treaty of Waitangi

The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and various Māori chiefs, granted the British sovereignty over New Zealand and gave Māori the rights of British subjects, promising to protect their land and treasures. However, differences in understanding and interpretation of the treaty have led to disputes and conflicts.

Colonial New Zealand

The establishment of a British colony in New Zealand led to significant European immigration and changes in the land's political, social, and economic structures. The New Zealand Wars between Māori tribes and British colonial forces marked this period, resulting in land confiscations and significant loss of life on both sides.

20th Century

In the 20th century, New Zealand developed a distinct national identity and moved towards greater political independence from Britain. It was a founding member of the United Nations in 1945 and in 1947 adopted the Statute of Westminster, marking its legislative independence. New Zealand's economy and society underwent significant changes in the late 20th century, including the introduction of a more liberal economic policy in the 1980s.

Contemporary New Zealand

Today, New Zealand is known for its diverse culture, incorporating both Māori and non-Māori elements, and its commitment to environmental conservation. It has a mixed economy that operates on free-market principles and is notable for its tourism and agricultural sectors. New Zealand's political system is a parliamentary democracy, and it maintains a commitment to international relations, including being an active member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Commonwealth of Nations. Template:New Zealand-stub