Over 1000 years ago, the Waitaha left their ancestral home of Patu-nui-o-Aio because of war. They travelled through many Hawaikis, finally landing on the South Island of New Zealand in the Uruao canoe.
Their leader was Rakaihautu – the first explorer. He lead a party down the east side of the Southern Alps to Foveaux Strait east to Otakou and north of Canterbury. His son Rakihouia took another group down the sea coast, while his other son Waita explored the centre part of the island.
These were the Waitaha – an industrious, peaceful people, learned in religion and astronomy. They placed a high value on remembering the traditions of their ancestors, and passing on this information to future generations.
History records the Waitaha arriving in 850 AD, the Katimamoe later around 1550, and the Kai Tahu about 1865.
The Te Maiharoa family are direct descendants of these ancient settlers. There are, however, many others who can make such a claim.
Waitaha Taiwhenua o Waitaki 
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