European Beginnings: 1642-1852

1642

• Abel Tasman is the first European to discover New Zealand.
• He calls it Staten Landt (later named Nieuw Zeeland) and annexes it (takes it over) for Holland.

1769

• Captain Cook hoists the Union Jack at Mercury Bay and takes possession of the land for King George III of Britain.

1820

• Hongi Hika, Nga Puhi chief, meets King George IV in England.

1832

• James Busby appointed British Resident in New Zealand. Arrives at the Bay of Islands in 1833.

1834

• James Busby invites the northern chiefs to Waitangi to choose a New Zealand flag. Flag known as 'The Flag of the Independent Tribes of New Zealand'.

1835

• James Busby sponsors a meeting at Waitangi, where 34 chiefs sign a 'Declaration of the Independence of New Zealand' and form a 'Confederation of the United Tribes of Aotearoa'. Declaration later recognised by the British Crown.

1840

• Captain William Hobson arrives at Waitangi to negotiate treaty between British Crown and Māori. Treaty of Waitangi signed on February 6.
• British sovereignty proclaimed over the North and South Islands, and Stewart Island in May and June.

1841

• New Zealand declared a British Crown colony, with Hobson as Governor of the Crown Colony.
• Executive and legislative councils set up to run the country.
• Official capital of New Zealand becomes Auckland after government offices moved from Russell (Kororareka).

1846

• First New Zealand Constitution Act passed.

1848

• New Zealand divided into two provinces, called New Munster and New Ulster.
• Sir George Grey appointed Governor-in-Chief over the islands of New Zealand.

1852

• Second constitution act establishes provinces (six at first) with own elected provincial council and superintendent, but subject to the national Parliament.
• The New Zealand Parliament to consist of two Houses: the House of Representatives (elected members, to be elected every five years); and the Legislative Council (appointed members).