Tawhirimatea

God of Storms

Tawhirimatea is the god of weather and storms in Maori mythology, one of the sons of Rangi and Papa. Unlike his brothers, he did not support the separation of their parents and has waged war against them ever since, his fury manifesting in the storms that batter the earth.

The Loyal Son

When the children of Rangi and Papa debated how to escape their dark prison, Tawhirimatea alone argued against separating their parents. He loved them as they were and could not bear the thought of their grief. When Tane succeeded in pushing them apart, Tawhirimatea ascended with his father Rangi to the sky.

War on His Brothers

From the sky, Tawhirimatea launched a devastating attack on his brothers who had supported the separation. He sent his children - the winds, clouds, storms, and hurricanes - against them. Tangaroa's fish fled to the depths of the sea. Rongo and Haumia hid within Papa's body. Tane's trees were torn and battered. Only Tu stood firm against the assault.

Eternal Warfare

The conflict between Tawhirimatea and his brothers continues to this day. Every storm is Tawhirimatea attacking Tangaroa's ocean or Tane's forests. Sailors and travelers must contend with his wrath, and those caught in his fury understand the power of the god of storms.