The Maori people are the original settlers in New Zealand whose migrations are thought to have preceded European settlement by some 400-500 years. Isolated form outside influence until European ‘discovery’, the Maori developed a unique culture comprised of highly developed social and ritualistic customs, and as a race, they displayed a great deal of courage when dealing with both the Europeans and each other.

The tradition of Maori arts continues to this day and over the past decade there has been a major revival in the arts, traditions and also language of the Maori.

Maori art reflects their Polynesian origins but has its own distinct and unique form. Intricate wood carving as well as weaving, stonework and tattooing became highly developed amongst the Maori.

Although English is spoken throughout New Zealand, Maori language is widely spoken as a second language, particularly on the North Island. Maori people and culture is very much and integrated part of the culture of the entire country although the traditional Maori way of life still continues in many parts of the country and can be seen most clearly at places like the Te Puia Cultural Center in Rotorua on the North Island and Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington on the South-Island.