Hapu

"Hapu" refers to a traditional Maori social and kinship unit in New Zealand, similar to a sub-tribe or extended family group. It is a community composed of related families who share ancestry, land, and cultural responsibilities. The hapu plays a vital role in maintaining Maori customs, language, and identity, often involving collective decision-making and stewardship of land and resources. It functions as a foundational social structure that supports cultural preservation and community cohesion within Maori society.