Unit 2: Decolonized Aotearoa History
Centering Māori Agency, Resistance, and Sovereignty
This unit provides a comprehensive counter-narrative to traditional colonial histories of New Zealand. It centers Māori perspectives, highlighting the sophistication of pre-colonial society, the strategic brilliance of resistance leaders, and the long, ongoing fight for tino rangatiratanga (sovereignty) that continues today.
Whakatūwhera - Unit Opening
This unit challenges us to see history through Māori eyes - not as victims of colonization, but as strategic leaders, innovators, and sovereign people who have never stopped fighting for their rights. We explore how historical narratives shape present understanding and future possibilities.
"Kia mau ki tō ture, kia mau ki tō tikanga" - Hold fast to your law, hold fast to your customs.
Ngā Akoranga - Lesson Sequence
Pre-Colonial Innovation
Challenge the myth of "primitive" technology by exploring Māori achievements in engineering, agriculture, and navigation.
The Aotearoa Wars
Reframe the "Land Wars" as a conflict over sovereignty, analyzing the sophisticated strategies of Māori leaders.
20th Century Rights
Explore the paradox of the Māori Battalion, the great urban migration, and the rise of a new wave of activism.
Fire of Activism
Analyze the strategies and impacts of the 1970s protest movements, including the Polynesian Panthers and the Bastion Point occupation.
Path to Redress
Understand the role of the Waitangi Tribunal and the ongoing process of Treaty settlements in addressing historical injustices.
📎 Unit Resources
Downloadable handouts, worksheets, and materials for this unit.