Ariki

Ariki is a Polynesian title for a high chief or hereditary noble, found across Polynesia including Māori New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Samoa, Tahiti and Niue. The word derives from Proto-Polynesian *ariki and has cognates such as aliʻi (Hawaiʻi), ariʻi (Tahitian) and aliki (Samoan). An ariki is traditionally regarded as high-ranking by birth, possessing chiefly mana (authority, prestige) and responsibility for the welfare, land, and spiritual wellbeing of a community.

The role and powers of an ariki vary by culture and period. In pre-contact societies ariki could control land allocation, lead ceremonies, and command allegiance from subordinate chiefs and clans. They frequently occupied a sacred status, connected to genealogies that legitimized leadership. Succession is usually hereditary but may involve complex kinship negotiations, demonstrations of leadership, or consensus among elite families.

Colonial contact and modern state structures changed ariki roles. Some gained formal positions within colonial administrations or retained influence through customary leadership. In the Cook Islands, for example, a House of Ariki established in the 20th century provides an advisory body with symbolic authority. In New Zealand, ariki remain important in Māori tribal structures and cultural revival movements, often participating in treaty negotiations and community governance.

Ariki continue to be significant cultural figures whose authority combines tradition, genealogy and contemporary politics, with specific functions and recognition that differ across Polynesian societies.