New Zealand is an island country located in Oceania off of Southeast Asia. The nation is comprised of two islands, the North and South Islands, and a couple of small islands. New Zealand is a common destination due to its wonderful nature and active biodiversity.
History
In 1840, New Zealand was annexed by Great Britain where it started to govern itself under British rule. It wasn’t until 1947 that New Zealand became fully independent. Even under British rule, the nation was able to control much of its own government and policies. While the nation has many exports, tourism plays a vital role in New Zealand’s financial stability.
The Māori
Prior to 1642, when the first European contact arrived off the coast of New Zealand, the island nation was inhabited by the Māori. This native group still heavily populates the main islands of New Zealand and continues to be a prominent group in New Zealand. It took until 1867 to ensure a seat in the New Zealand parliament, but the native peoples of the island were represented politically, and economically. In 1987 Māori was made an official language of New Zealand which was another huge step in the decolonization of this island nation.
In attempts to decolonize the island nation, there have been many efforts beyond political representation. The Māori have their own radio station and other news sources that are controlled by the local community. In an attempt to restore land, the government has been returning sections of land back to the Māori control. The islands of New Zealand have a lot of biodiversity and lots of natural resources that the Māori require to be protected. Not only are there multiple national parks and other protected territories which make up about one-third of the country. Out of all the population of New Zealand, only 5% are humans. The other 95% are animals.
Learn More about the Māori
Latest Māori News – Waatea News: Māori Radio Station
Te Ao Māori News (teaonews.co.nz)
Discover Māori culture in New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand (newzealand.com)
Links Used:
Maori | History, Traditions, Culture, Language, & Facts | Britannica