Here's a breakdown:
* Lapita Culture: The Lapita people were a prehistoric culture that originated in the Bismarck Archipelago (north of Papua New Guinea) around 3500 years ago. They spread eastward across the Pacific, leaving behind distinctive pottery and other artifacts.
* Polynesian and Maori Ancestry: The Lapita people are considered ancestors of the Polynesian and Maori peoples, but not the only ancestors.
* Evolution of Polynesian and Maori: The Lapita culture evolved over time and split into different branches, leading to the emergence of distinct Polynesian and Maori groups.
* Other Influences: Polynesian and Maori populations also experienced gene flow and cultural influences from other groups, including Melanesian, Micronesian, and Asian populations.
In summary, the Lapita people are a key link in the ancestry of Polynesians and Maori, but they are not the sole ancestors. The story of Polynesian and Maori ancestry is complex and involves a mixture of populations and influences.