New Zealand People can be divided into two main groups: MAORI and Maoris. The MAORI are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, who arrived in the country around 800 years ago. They are the tangata whenua, or people of the land, and their culture is an integral part of New Zealand's national identity. The Maoris are the descendants of the original MAORI settlers, and they continue to practice traditional customs and beliefs. Both groups are integral to the culture and history of New Zealand.