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Te ao Māori (the Māori world) has many mythological references to supernatural entities and beings which dwell in te ao wairua (the spiritual realm). Taniwha feature prominently as powerful entities that can have both positive or a negative influence on people and environments. Although they are often depicted as fearsome in appearance, they can appear in many different forms.
Taniwha are also known to dwell in te ao kikokiko (the terrestrial realm) and there are many narratives speaking of them. These stories give names and locations of taniwha, and they also describe what form and appearance each taniwha assumes. There are also waiata (songs) and haka (dances) attributed to their taniwha.
Taniwha in their earthly form are often elemental in appearance, such as wood, wind, water or stone. Whether celestial or terrestrial, taniwha are a special part of te ao Māori and the peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Take a look at our commemorative Cave Taniwha coins also available. Click here.