New Zealand Tourism Specialist Practice Test

Māori is the term that specifically refers to the indigenous people of New Zealand. This group has a rich cultural heritage, language, and social structure that has evolved over centuries. The Māori have a unique connection to the land, known as " whenua," and their history is deeply embedded in New Zealand's national identity.

The other terms listed do not accurately describe New Zealand's indigenous population. Aboriginals refer to the indigenous peoples of Australia, which is distinct from the Māori. Polynesians is a broader term that encompasses various peoples from the Pacific Islands, including groups from places like Samoa, Tonga, and Hawaii, but it does not specifically identify the indigenous people of New Zealand. The alternate spelling "Maori" is commonly used but lacks the correct diacritical mark that denotes the proper pronunciation and representation of the term in Māori culture. The use of the macron over the 'ā' is important in recognizing the language's nuances and historical significance.