The Māori King Movement (or Kīngitanga) began in the 1850s as a response to the increasing European settlement in New Zealand. It aimed to unify the Māori people under a single leader, the Māori King, to strengthen their political and cultural identity. The movement sought to protect Māori land and rights while promoting self-governance. The first Māori King was Potatau Te Wherowhero, crowned in 1858. The movement has continued to play a significant role in Māori politics and culture, with subsequent kings, such as King Tāwhiao and the current king, King Tūheitia, advocating for Māori issues and rights in contemporary New Zealand.