Who was the first moari king?

The first Māori king was Potatau Te Wherowhero, who was crowned in 1858. His ascension marked the beginning of the Māori King Movement, which aimed to unify Māori tribes and provide a cohesive leadership structure against colonial pressures. Potatau's reign symbolized a significant effort to assert Māori sovereignty and identity during a time of significant change and challenge in New Zealand.