Rēkohu

Rēkohu, the Chatham Islands east of New Zealand, is the homeland of the Moriori. Its cool ocean climate and island shores shaped the resources available to communities. Fishing, gathering and marine hunting provided food and materials, while familiarity with weather, seasons and coastal places guided travel and work.

Moriori society developed its own traditions, institutions and relationship with the islands, including principles of peaceful conflict resolution. European voyagers arrived in 1791, bringing new contacts, goods, disease and outside interests. A later invasion by Māori groups from mainland New Zealand brought devastating violence and enslavement; subsequent colonial changes also profoundly affected the islands. Moriori continue to sustain their culture, identity and relationship with their homeland.