Waitangi timeline

  • 1250

    Polynesians arrive

    Polynesians arrive
    The first Polynesians arrived in NZ.
  • The British arrive

    The British arrive
    James Cook arrives and claims the Islands of NZ as British land.
  • Hunters and Traders start visiting NZ

    Hunters and Traders start visiting NZ
    Whalers and Sealers visit NZ.
  • Missionaries and Traders

    Missionaries and Traders
    Increasing numbers of missionaries and traders arrive in NZ.
  • James Buzby

    James Buzby
    James Busby appointed as first NZ resident.
  • Maori chiefs meet.

    Maori chiefs meet.
    25 Maori chiefs meet to discuss the NZ flag.
  • Declaration of independence

    Declaration of independence
    The declaration of Independence was first signed.
  • Waitangi

    Waitangi
    The Treaty of Waitangi first signed.
  • War in Waikato

    War in Waikato
    War breaks out in Waikato when a British person "accidentally" shoots a Maori.
  • Native land court

    Native land court
    The native land court was established to return stolen land to Maori iwi.
  • NZ wars finish

    NZ wars finish
    The NZ wars finish.
  • Waitangi day

    Waitangi day
    Waitangi day is established and celebrated.
  • Waitangi Tribunal

    Waitangi Tribunal
    The Waitangi Tribunal is set up to help Maori who lost land unfairly.
  • The first settlement

    The first settlement
    The first modern treaty settlement is agreed over the land at Waitomo caves.
  • A special visit

    A special visit
    Prime Minister Jacinda Adern at Waitangi for 5 days meeting with the Maori.