Tapu is a fundamental concept in te ao Māori, representing a state of sacredness, restriction, or protection. It is deeply tied to spiritual and cultural beliefs, acknowledging the divine presence or significance in people, places, objects, and actions. Tapu safeguards the mana of individuals and the sanctity of environments, ensuring balance and respect within relationships and communities. It is upheld and guided by tikanga, and breaches of tapu can lead to imbalance, requiring rituals or processes to restore harmony.