What is "whakapapa"

n. genealogy, a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.

Whakapapa , or genealogy, is a fundamental principle that permeates the whole of Māori culture. However, it is more than just a genealogical 'device'. It is in fact a paradigm of cultural discourse and provides the basis for establishing, enhancing, and even challenging relationships between individuals, whanau ( families), hapū (local tribal entities) and iwi (regional tribal bodies)..