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While other cultures have dragons, serpents or other mythical beasts as the root of their myths and legends, New Zealand has the taniwha. A dominant creature in many Maori legends, they were mainly said to live in water, favouring deep pools in lakes, or rough waters and rips in rivers and oceans. This powerful creature is the subject of this limited edition coin issue.
The exact characteristics of the taniwha changed and adapted with each legend told. Some were described as giant lizards or reptilian sea creatures, some even had wings. Some legends described them as shape shifters, able to change into a shark, whale or even a log if it so needed to. The purpose of the taniwha also varied greatly. Described as fierce protectors or kaitiaki of some tribes or iwi, they would be offered gifts in thanks for their protection. Yet by some tribes they were described as ferocious beasts that terrorised communities, kidnapping woman and capturing and consuming people. Despite being considered a supernatural creature they are still considered to be part of the natural environment in the Maori world.