Prior to 1800 in New Zealand

The first humans are thought to have arrived in New Zealand from Polynesia some time around 1300AD. The people, who later became known as Māori, eventually travelled to almost every part of the country. Their arrival had a significant impact on the local fauna, particularly the flightless birds such as moa. At the same time that Cook made his first visit, Jean de Surville also briefly visited New Zealand. Surville's encounters with Māori were inconsistent and he kidnapped a chief on his departure.

Prior to 1800 in New Zealand

The first humans are thought to have arrived in New Zealand from Polynesia some time around 1300AD. The people, who later became known as Māori, eventually travelled to almost every part of the country. Their arrival had a significant impact on the local fauna, particularly the flightless birds such as moa. At the same time that Cook made his first visit, Jean de Surville also briefly visited New Zealand. Surville's encounters with Māori were inconsistent and he kidnapped a chief on his departure.