Final answer:
The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand who created fortified village strongholds called pa for protection. Despite European colonization impacting their society, the Maori culture is still prominent today, with Maori making up 14 percent of the country's population.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Maori people are an indigenous Polynesian population that settled in New Zealand around the 10th century. They are known for their unique culture and traditions, which were well established long before European colonization. An integral part of their societal structure was the fortress-like village known as a pa. These fortified structures were often situated atop hilltops or in other strategically defensible positions, surrounded by stockades to protect the inhabitants from potential threats. The Maori later faced significant challenges with the arrival of Europeans, leading to conflicts and wars as they sought to defend their land and way of life. Despite the adversity faced including the loss of lands, introduction of new diseases, and military defeats, the Maori culture has remained vibrant and distinct. Today, they comprise about 14 percent of New Zealand's population and contribute to the country's diverse cultural landscape.