This creation tale starts with darkness and ends In light. Both masculine and feminine energies were present at the dawn of time, dueling with one another in fights. But they would not remain in the darkness forever. Ranginui, the Sky Father and Papatūānuku, The Earth Mother were tightly bound in an embrace, but not for long. After the birth of their children Gods, the brothers were angered by
the darkness surrounding them and they longed to see the light come through upon the earth.

As the darkness permeated, Tūmatauenga (God of War) grew in his anger and suggested that the gods kill their parents Ranginui and Papatūānuku.Tāne Mahutu (God of the Forrest), who had grace for his parents suggested an idea to push his parents apart instead. He then placed the feet of his father up into the skies and plunged the shoulders of his mother onto the ground. Finally, the light came through and the Gods were so elated. Ranginui and Papatūānuku were pained and cried out in anguish, for their love was far away.

Tāwhirimatea (God of Wind and Weather) was sorrowful of this separation. In his grief he sent wind gusts, torrential rain and mist to provoke his brothers to try and change their minds. He wreaked havoc on Tane Mahuta’s trees and he caused
whirlpools in Tangoroa’s oceans. Years passed and soon Tumatauenga (God of War and Human Activity) confronted Tāwhirimatea. In what seemed like forever, the two brother Gods fought and fought in an endless battle, setting a turbulent scene in the skies, oceans and earth.

The weather and humans still today seem to be in an endless dual. Today we have problems such as global warming and deforestation posing threats to our earth. As problems like this continues, the separation of Ranginui and Papatūānuku goes on. Every time it rains, that is known as Ranginui crying out to Papatūānuku. When you see that mist in the air, that’s Papatūānuku longing for her beloved. Sadly both remain separated to this day, as earth and sky too remain far apart.

Land is of course how we ground and connect with the world. Our Turangawaewae is our foundation that we build upon. The relationships we build with our landscapes and environment are pivotal and that’s exactly what these Puzzles show us: a hunger for the outdoors and a patient mindset.

Tamaraki can engage with stimulating conversations about our cultural identity in Aotearoa through these durable and educational puzzles. Together you can learn more about Maoritanga in a fun,unique and play infused way.