Story: Ideas about Māori origins

Chatham Islands Moriori

Chatham Islands Moriori

In the first half of the 20th century it was thought the Moriori were a separate race who died out after the arrival of Māori. It is now accepted that Moriori settled the Chatham Islands from mainland New Zealand some time after 1300, possibly around the 1500s, and developed a distinct culture there. This drawing, by Rita Angus, depicts the clothing worn by a Moriori man.

Using this item

Canterbury Museum, Rita Angus Watercolour Collection
Reference: 2770
Watercolour by Rita Angus

Permission of Canterbury Museum, Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch, New Zealand must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

K. R. Howe, 'Ideas about Māori origins - 1880s–1970s: Moriori origins; the Great Fleet', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/1756/chatham-islands-moriori (accessed 25 April 2024)

Story by K. R. Howe, published 8 Feb 2005