Taniwha

A "taniwha" is a creature from the Māori mythology of the indigenous people of New Zealand. It is often described as a kind of spirit or monster that lives in bodies of water like rivers, lakes and oceans, and has a lot of power and influence over them.

Some people think of taniwha as guardians, while others see them as harmful creatures that can cause problems for humans who are not respectful or careful around them. The stories about taniwha are an important part of Māori culture, and can reflect different ideas about the natural world and how humans should interact with it.

Overall, taniwha are part of a rich oral tradition that has been passed down through generations of Māori, and continue to be a significant part of New Zealand culture and history.