Papa-tu-a-nuku

Also known as: Papa / the Earth / the Far-stretching Earth / the far-stretching Earth · Role: the far-stretching earth · First appears: Chapter I · Tiki--The Ancestor of Mankind

In Chapter I, after Rangi-nui and Papa-tu-a-nuku were separated, the light shone over Papa-tu-a-nuku, “the mother of Tiki”; Tiki became the first man. Chapter I also tells that Hine-nui-te-po gave birth to the world, from which all must return. In Chapter II, Rangi made Papa-tu-a-nuku his wife, and their first son was Rehua. He declared, “nevermore will I be parted from you.” Before this, while the world was still in Te-po-nui, Tangaroa had taken her to wife, and their sons were Tinirau.

In Chapter II, Tane lifted Rangi away from Papa-tu-a-nuku, separating Heaven and Earth and bringing Hawaiki into being. In Chapter IV, Tane rested upon Papa while Rangi became adorned with stars. In Chapter VI, Tane became the father of the lakes and spread their glittering faces over Papa; Rangi sent his rays down upon her and created the flowers. In Chapter XII, Papa-tu-a-nuku sends white cloud-messengers of love to Rangi.