Peter Dey's conclusions regarding the disputed indigenous status of the Maori aren't necessarily the last word. Because they presuppose that all the evidence has been available to researchers. Sometimes it is a matter of time, and the unexpectedness of new discoveries.
In NZ, unfortunately, but specifically Northland, there is a more sinister complication.
The deliberate hindrance to research and discovery, via destruction or concealment of evidence, blocking of access to sites, unaccountable disappearance of material from 'secure” storage, further complicated by self-serving complicity between highly motivated Maori, jealously protective of a shaky 'indigenous” status, and certain Government departments.
Not to be underestimated, is the effect of ridicule and dismissal by qualified experts, of the research conducted by private citizens through a lifelong passion, some living 'at the coalface”, driven by genuine passion to understand NZ's place in global history. They are tireless, intent on truth, serving no masters but their own integrity. Willing to share and compare knowledge. Not accountable to governmental or other dictates. A beautifully presented book of just such research is dismissed out of hand as a serious work, because of the lack of 'qualifications” and research procedures. These authors are dedicated people, intelligent and truth seeking, not dabblers or destructive of the environment. And above all, with no agenda. (To the Ends of the Earth - stunningly illustrated.)
For this reason, the jury remains out on the sublect of indigenous status.

D. Holm, Tauranga.