This data set displays the boundaries of areas designated as Māori Lands. These areas include both Māori freehold lands and Māori customary lands. Māori customary lands belong to the Crown but are communally held by Māori in accordance with customary values and practices, generally referred to as tikanga Māori. Māori freehold lands are Māori customary lands that have been converted, through application to the Māori Land Court, to the titled, private possession of Māori individuals or small groups (fewer than five owners). Most Māori land falls under the category of Māori freehold land. The Native Lands Act of 1862 created the Māori Land Court, which oversees the administration of freehold land titles.