Māori Culture
Māori are recognised as the Tangata Whenua (people of the land) of New Zealand. They make up 14.6% of the population and have a large cultural influence on the nation. In 1840 the British Crown signed a treaty (agreement) with some Māori chiefs. This treaty is known as the ‘Treaty of Waitangi’.
Bay of Plenty Polytechnic is committed to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. All activities including the setting of academic programmes, the services offered and the employment of staff, are conducted in a way that encourages a commitment to the principles of the Treaty. Most Māori affiliate themselves with an iwi.
Most Māori people from the Tauranga region are of Ngati Ranginui or Ngai te Rangi descent. Mataatua is the name of the waka (canoe/boat) on which the ancestors of those from Ngati Ranginui and Ngai te Rangi travelled to New Zealand hundreds of years ago.