Where did the Maori come from?

The Maori people are indigenous to New Zealand. They are believed to have originated from Eastern Polynesia, specifically from islands like Tahiti, the Society Islands, and the Cook Islands.

Here's a breakdown:

* Origins: The ancestors of the Maori traveled to New Zealand from Eastern Polynesia in multiple migrations that began around 1280 AD. These migrations likely took place over several generations, with some groups arriving earlier than others.

* Evidence: Archaeological evidence, including artifacts, human remains, and the analysis of mitochondrial DNA, supports the Eastern Polynesian origin of the Maori people.

* Cultural Connections: The Maori language and culture have strong similarities to those found in Eastern Polynesia, further supporting their shared ancestry.

It's important to note that the Maori are not a homogenous group. There are different iwi (tribes) with their own unique traditions, histories, and territories.