The Indigenous Peoples of New Zealand are known as the Māori. They are the original inhabitants of the islands, having arrived from Polynesia around the 13th century. The Māori culture is rich in traditions, language, and art, with a strong connection to the land and their ancestors. Māori society is organized into tribes called iwi, which are further divided into sub-tribes known as hapū. The Māori language, or te reo Māori, is an official language of New Zealand and is an essential part of their identity. Today, the Māori continue to play a vital role in New Zealand's cultural and political landscape.