The history of Maori settlement in the district sets this region apart as the founding place of the nation.
Tradition has it that legendary hero Maui fished the North Island of New Zealand out of Te Moana Nui a Kiwa (Pacific Ocean) from his waka (canoe). This waka is said to rest on the peak of Mt Hikurangi, the first place in the world to be kissed by the warm rays of the sun each day.
The first people to settle in this district came as part of the Maori migration from Eastern Polynesia about 700 years ago. Maori social organisation was based on canoe connections and the people were tribal in nature and protective of their people and territory.
Pilgrim fleet leaders Paoa and Kiwa of the Horouta canoe made the region the seat of New Zealand history. The predominant tribal groupings in the district are Ngati Porou to the north ranging through to Aitanga A Mahaki, Rongowhakaata, Nga Ariki and Ngai Tamanuhiri to the southern part of the district. Maori people of the district continue to adhere to their historical values and sense of origin, including the Maori language.
Many of the traditional concepts of social solidarity and well-being are integrated in contemporary educational, recreational and economic pursuits.
The district has been the cradle for producing Maori leaders in many fields including education, politics, opera, sports and land management practices.