Case file · Folklore / legend
Taniwha
Powerful beings of Māori tradition living in deep river pools, caves or the sea, seen as protective guardians (kaitiaki) or as dangerous predators.
2002 CE · -37.32, 175.07 · status: legend
The account
In 2002 the Ngāti Naho iwi of Meremere secured changes to the route of State Highway 1 to respect the home of their taniwha. Taniwha have since featured in court cases and negotiations in New Zealand.
The sceptical view
Taniwha are part of living Māori belief and law, often marking dangerous waters; the question is respect for culture rather than zoology.
Connections in the atlas
- Patupaiarehe
- Taniwha
- Pelorus Jack, the guiding dolphin
- Hotupuku, the taniwha of Kaingaroa
- Araiteuru, guardian of the Hokianga
- Yee naaldlooshii (Diné tradition)
- Bunyip