The Māori people are the indigenous people of New Zealand and makeup roughly 15% of the country's population. 

The Māori culture is integral to New Zealand's identity, with its unique customs and traditions dating back over 1,000 years.

Photo by: donatakukyte

One of the most distinctive features of Māori culture is their language, "Te Reo Māori." While English is the dominant language in New Zealand, there has been a recent resurgence in using Te Reo Māori, with efforts to preserve and promote the language.

Many place names in New Zealand are derived from Māori, and Te Reo Māori is also taught in schools nationwide.

Photo by: maorilanguage

Another distinctive and unique culture of the Maori people is the "Tā moko." Tā moko is the permanent marking or "tattoo" as traditionally practiced by Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand.

Darby Tuhaka is a great Ta Moko artist with one of the most striking facial tattoos that tell the story of his life, family, history, and people.

Photo by: travelinmicktattoo

The Māori people also have a strong connection to the land, with a deep respect for nature and the environment.

This connection is reflected in their traditional arts and crafts, which often incorporate natural materials such as wood, bone, and feathers. Carving, weaving, and tattooing are all important aspects of Māori culture, and each has its own rich history and symbolism.

Photo by: rotoruanz

Another significant aspect of Māori culture is the concept of "Mana," which refers to spiritual power and authority.

Mana is considered an inherent and sacred quality that can be inherited, earned, or lost through a person's actions and interactions with others. It is associated with a person's character, integrity, reputation, and ability to lead and inspire others.

Photo by: julieharris18

Perhaps the most well-known aspect of Māori culture is the "Haka." The Haka is a traditional dance of the Māori people, the indigenous people of New Zealand. It is a powerful and energetic dance that involves rhythmic movements, chanting, and gestures.

The Haka is also often performed by New Zealand's national rugby team, the All Blacks, before matches to intimidate their opponents and pay tribute to the Māori culture.

Photo by: allblackstours

The Haka has significant cultural and social importance to the Māori people. It is used for various occasions, such as welcoming visitors, celebrating important events, and honouring and remembering their ancestors.

Photo by: yamashitaphoto

The Haka is deeply rooted in Māori tradition and spirituality, and its practice is seen as a way to connect with their cultural heritage and identity. It symbolizes strength, unity, and pride and is considered a sacred and valuable aspect of Māori culture.

Photo by: marymeinspain

Perhaps one of the most powerful and moving images of all time is the Maoris of 'C' Company, 28th Maori Battalion of the 2nd New Zealand Army Division, performing the 'Haka' (Native War Dance) for the visit of King George II of Greece, his wife the Queen, his cousin Prince Peter and Major General Freyberg. The location was at an army camp at Helwan in Egypt during WW2, 1941

The battalion fought during the Greek, North African, and Italian campaigns, earning a formidable reputation as a fighting force that Allied and German commanders subsequently acknowledged.

After several confrontations with them, Erwin Rommel remarked: "Give me the Maori Battalion, and I will conquer the world.

The Māori culture is essential to New Zealand's national identity, and efforts to preserve and promote this rich and diverse culture are ongoing.

Visitors to New Zealand can experience Māori culture firsthand through cultural tours, performances, and events to gain a deeper appreciation for this unique and fascinating culture.

Cover photo by: Tātaki Auckland Unlimited