Hinemoa is a powerful being. She looks after the sea with Tangaroa. Then there is Mahuika, who has the power of fire, Tāwhiri-mātea who controls the weather and wise Muri-ranga-whenua.
This is a new bilingual edition of the popular book by author and artist Robyn Kahukiwa's portrayal of Māori gods. Kahukiwa takes readers on a visual journey, introducing readers to come of the major Māori deities, imparting simple and effective explanations of their realms.
For those who haven't seen the original release, a hardcover in English in 2017, you are in for a treat. Kahukiwa's artwork is spectacular. They are bold, bright and full of aroha, power and mana.
We have treasured the original in our home for a long time, and have long yearned for it to be translated into te reo Māori. Thanks to Kiwa Hammond that wish has now come true. It is lovely to see Kahukiwa's incredible artwork paired with reo Māori, adding to the mana and fierceness of the gods.
This has been a taonga of a book for a long time and the release of a bilingual book only adds to it, affirming the importance of te ao Māori to our lives.
Oratia Books
Reviewed by Rebekah Lyell