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Researchers explore theory of pre-Maori Chinese settlement in New Zealand

Two independent researchers are investigating the possibility of Chinese explorers settling in New Zealand before the indigenous Māori people arrived. This theory challenges the established historical timeline, which posits that Polynesians settled New Zealand in the 13th century, followed by Europeans in the 17th century. The current historical narrative, particularly the Treaty of Waitangi signed in 1840, forms the basis of New Zealand's national identity and political structure. AI

RANK_REASON The item discusses a historical theory and academic skepticism, rather than a concrete event or release.

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Researchers explore theory of pre-Maori Chinese settlement in New Zealand

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COVERAGE [1]

  1. SCMP — Tech TIER_1 English(EN) · Holly Chik ·

    Could Chinese explorers have settled New Zealand before the Maori?

    For generations, the narrative of New Zealand’s human settlement has held that Polynesian voyagers – the ancestors of the Maori – arrived and settled the islands in the 13th century, followed by European explorers in the 17th century. This timeline underpins New Zealand’s history…