Māoriland was founded by Libby Hakaraia, Maddy Hakaraia de Young, Pat Hakaraia (Ngāti Kapu), Tania Hakaraia, and Tainui Stephens (Te Rarawa). Māoriland is operated in Ōtaki under the leadership of Libby Hakaraia and is recognised by Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki.