Ngā Atua Māori
Tūmatauenga
Tūmatauenga, commonly referred to as the atua of war, is also the atua of humanity and the activities of humankind. He is associated with human endeavour, innovation, and all things created by people. Tūmatauenga symbolises strength, perseverance, courage, and purposeful action.
Tāne Mahuta
Tāne Mahuta is the atua of the forest and all life within it. He is the ancestor of humankind, and our whakapapa is bound to the forest and his many descendants through him. He is also responsible for separating his parents, Ranginui and Papatūānuku, allowing light and life to flourish in the world.
Papatūānuku
Papatūānuku is the Earth Mother. She is the land beneath our feet and the source of nourishment and sustenance for all living things. Through her union with Ranginui, all the other atua came into being, making her a central figure in the whakapapa of creation.
Tangaroa
Tangaroa is the atua of the rivers and seas. He is the ancestor of all fish and aquatic life, both freshwater and saltwater, and is the guardian and overseer of these domains.
Hinemoana
Hinemoana is the personification of the sea and ocean. She is descended from Parawhenuamea, the atua of waters that spring forth from the earth, and Kiwa, the atua associated with the great ocean. Hinemoana is the ancestor of seaweed and shellfish. The ebb and flow of the tides are regarded as tangible expressions of her presence and influence.
Ranginui
Ranginui is the Sky Father, the personification of the sky, atmosphere, and celestial realm above. His union with Papatūānuku gave rise to the other atua, and together they are regarded as the primordial parents of creation.
Tāwhirimātea
Tāwhirimātea is the atua of weather and wind. He is the son of Ranginui and Papatūānuku who remained with Ranginui after their separation. Tāwhirimātea is the personification of the forces of nature expressed through weather, storms, and the winds.
