Tawhaki

Tawhaki’s brothers-in-law attack him while he is returning from fishing and bury him, believing him dead. His wife Hinepiripiri notices that their story does not agree with what the other brothers say. She searches for Tawhaki, finds that he still lives, and carries him home to tend his wounds. Their first son is named Wahieroa after the long piece of wood his mother brings to feed the fire. When Tawhaki has recovered, he leaves with his people and calls on the gods for revenge. Floodwater overwhelms the community of the Mataaho.

Tawhaki and Karihi then go after the Ponaturi, who killed Hema and carried away Urutonga. They reach the house where Hema’s bones hang and hide in the roof. At dawn, their mother opens the blocked doors and windows, and sunlight destroys the sleeping Ponaturi. The brothers take Hema’s bones and bring Urutonga home. Later, Tango-tango, a woman from the sky, becomes Tawhaki’s wife and bears him a daughter. After he mocks the child, Tango-tango flies back to the heavens with her. Tawhaki follows a path of rooted tendrils upwards. He reaches the settlement above, disguises himself, and works beside his brothers-in-law until they recognise him. He takes his daughter in his arms and is reunited with Tango-tango. The account associates thunder and lightning with Tawhaki’s steps in the sky.