Pre-European Māori:
* Polynesian origins: They were descended from Polynesian voyagers who arrived in Aotearoa (New Zealand) around the 13th century.
* Skilled navigators and seafarers: They possessed impressive knowledge of the stars, currents, and winds, allowing them to navigate vast distances.
* Highly developed agriculture: They cultivated crops like kumara (sweet potato), taro, and gourds, and practiced sophisticated horticulture techniques.
* Expert fishermen and hunters: They fished with various techniques, including nets, hooks, and spear fishing, and hunted birds, fish, and seals.
* Strong community focus: They lived in villages (kainga) and were organized into iwi, each with its own territory, customs, and leaders (rangatira).
* Spiritual beliefs: Their religion centered around gods (atua), ancestors (tupuna), and nature spirits. They practiced rituals and ceremonies to honor them and maintain harmony with the natural world.
* Art and craftsmanship: They were skilled artisans, creating intricate carvings (taonga), weaving (whatu), and jewelry (hei tiki). Their art often held significant cultural and spiritual meaning.
* Warrior culture: They were known for their bravery and fighting skills, and conflicts between iwi were common.
Key points to remember:
* The Māori were not a homogenous group; their practices varied based on region, iwi, and individual beliefs.
* The arrival of Europeans brought significant changes to their culture and society.
* It's important to acknowledge the diversity and complexity of Māori society before European contact.
Instead of using a single phrase to "describe" the Māori, it's more accurate to highlight their specific traits and achievements.