why it still fits into modern day Aotearoa
The Kīngitanga or Māori King movement is one of the most enduring Māori institutions that emerged in colonial times, and is one of the longest-running political institutions in New Zealand. Originating in 1858, it has continued into the 2000s. Kīngi Tūheitia is the seventh successive sovereign since the inception of the Kīngitanga.
There was no single Māori sovereign when Europeans first came to New Zealand. Instead, Māori tribes functioned independently under the leadership of their own chiefs. However, by the 1850s Māori were faced with increasing numbers of British settlers, political marginalisation and growing demand from the Crown to purchase their lands. Māori were divided between those who were prepared to sell and those who were not.
Link to article: The history of the Kīngitanga and why it still fits into modern day Aotearoa - NZ Herald
