In Māori mythology, taniwha (Māori pronunciation: [ˈtaniɸa]) [1] are large supernatural beings that live in deep pools in rivers, dark caves, or in the sea, especially in places with dangerous currents or deceptive breakers (giant waves).

Known as taniwha, they lurked in watery dens, or in caves, and were often depicted as dragons or serpents, with fiery eyes and lashing tails. Crucial to the stories of deadly taniwha were the heroic slayers, who triumphed with their cunning and courage. What are taniwha?

The northern bay of Mangōnui (meaning great shark) is named after a guardian taniwha, in the form of a giant shark, that accompanied the canoe Riukaramea into the harbour. There are several stories of these taniwha in Māori tradition.

In New Zealand's mystical waters, the enigmatic Taniwha, a dual-natured guardian and menace, captivates Maori culture's essence.

Taniwha are supernatural creatures whose forms and characteristics vary according to different tribal traditions. Though supernatural, in the Māori world view they were seen as part of the natural environment. Taniwha have been described as fabulous monsters that live in deep water.

Ureia is Hauraki’s taniwha. He first appears in their traditions as the escort to the Tainui waka on its arrival from Hawaiki. Ureia led the waka into the calm waters of Tīkapa Moana (Hauraki Gulf), coming to landfall at Te Anaputa, a promontory at Tararu, a few kilometres north of Thames.

Many taniwha looked like reptiles they had wings and ate people. What does the the northern bay of Mangōnui mean ? It means great shark. 'Pānia of the Reef' is one of the great romantic stories in Māori tradition. Pānia was a sea maiden who swam …

Some rivers, lakes and caves were declared tapu, believed to be the home of water-dwelling monsters, or taniwha. Even now, access to certain areas is restricted or forbidden, because a taniwha is said to inhabit the water.

Taniwha inhabit the rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, with their presence marking sacred or dangerous places. In the Māori cosmology, the Taniwha hold a significant place, often acting as kaitiaki (guardians) for specific iwi (tribes) and hapū (sub-tribes).

Taniwha are revered powerful creatures from traditional Māori stories. They live in deep pools, rivers, dark caves and the ocean. The waters in which they live can be dangerous and even …