Water In some traditions the waters off the East Coast of the North Island are named Te Tai Tamawahine – ‘peaceful, female waters’

The sea-Tangaroa Māori believe that water is an energy, with many moods. It can be calm and life-giving, or dangerous and destructive. This energy is called Tangaroa – ‘god of the sea’

Maori Culture In Māori culture the sea is often considered to be the source and foundation of all life. Islands are fish drawn up from the water, and people evolved from amphibious beginnings. But Tangaroa, god of the sea, can also be destructive. Traditions tell of vengeance wrought by the sea upon those who fall out of favour

Importance of Water Māori people and their Polynesian ancestors lived close to the sea and relied on it for food and other resources. The sea also has spiritual importance. In many traditions it is thought to be where all life began. People evolved from fish to human form. Traditional carvings of the ancestors show snake- like bodies, three fingers and large heads – a lot like amphibians, which can live on both land and water. Māori people and their Polynesian ancestors lived close to the sea and relied on it for food and other resources. The sea also has spiritual importance. In many traditions it is thought to be where all life began. People evolved from fish to human form. Traditional carvings of the ancestors show snake- like bodies, three fingers and large heads – a lot like amphibians, which can live on both land and water.

Types of Water Māori describe wai (water) in a number of ways. For example, it can be waikino – dangerous water, such as stormy seas or swollen rivers. Waitapu is sacred water used in ceremonies. Waitai is salty water, while waiwhakaika or waikotikoti is the water used when cutting hair.