The Mysterious Moriori People of Chatham Islands

The Chatham Islands, located 800 km east of New Zealand, are home to the indigenous Moriori people who have lived there for over 800 years. The Moriori have a unique culture and history, having arrived on the islands long before the Maori arrived on mainland New Zealand. I learned from the locals about the tragic history of the Moriori people, who were traditionally a peaceful tribe. In the 1830s, they were massacred and enslaved by Maori warriors, drastically reducing their population. Despite this dark history, the Moriori culture is still alive and present on the islands today, celebrated through music, dance, and artwork. I was fascinated by their traditional beliefs in non-violence and communal living.