Tawhirimatea: Māori God of Storms
Exploring Māori Mythology and Weather Year 5 Learning Journey
What is Māori Mythology?
Stories passed down through generations Explains how the world was created Teaches important values and lessons Part of New Zealand's cultural heritage
Meet Tawhirimatea
God of weather, winds, and storms One of the children of Ranginui and Papatūānuku Brother to other important gods Controls all weather patterns
The Separation of Sky and Earth
Tawhirimatea's Family
Father: Ranginui (Sky Father) Mother: Papatūānuku (Earth Mother) Brother: Tāne Mahuta (God of Forests) Brother: Tangaroa (God of the Sea)
Tawhirimatea's Powers
{"left":"Creates thunderstorms and lightning\nControls wind patterns and hurricanes\nBrings rain and hail","right":"Causes tornadoes and cyclones\nGentle breezes on calm days\nSeasonal weather changes"}
Weather Detective Activity
Look outside right now What weather can you see? Which of Tawhirimatea's powers is at work? Draw or describe what you observe
Stories and Legends
Tawhirimatea's anger created the first storms He protects his father Ranginui in the sky Sometimes fights with his brother Tangaroa Helps farmers by bringing rain for crops
Think and Discuss
How do you think Māori people felt during big storms? Why might they have created stories about Tawhirimatea? What weather events happen in New Zealand?
Tawhirimatea Today
Still important in Māori culture Weather forecasts on TV and radio Māori place names honor the gods Festivals and ceremonies remember the stories