Rainbow Warrior

Matauri-Bay - Hohepa-Epiha

The first contacts between Māori and European seafarers from 1642 onwards were remarkable for the lack of conflict. However, as more settlers arrived and wanted land, Maori territories were illegally invaded by imperial troops and local militia. This was despite a treaty between the British Crownand Māori outlining a process for peaceful settlement. Māori continue to assert their customary rights, culture, language and identity. Greenpeace New Zealand and a number of Māori tribes enjoy close cooperation with each other – without Māori support the Rainbow Warrior would not have found her present resting place.