0 a creature that lives in hidden places or deep water, and that both protects and is harmful to people, according to the stories and beliefs of Maoris (= one of the original people of New Zealand):
The taniwha collected large boulders and stones from the mountains to block the course of the demon.
At sea, a taniwha often takes the form of a whale or large shark.
The Maori account of the gorge's formation involves a taniwha.
The niho taniwha (taniwha tooth) pattern is a notched-tooth design found on all types of objects, mats, woven panels, belts, and clothing.
It flew high above the harbour and wept for the taniwha, whose body was lifted high the hills close to the harbour entrance.
According to traditional beliefs, a number of taniwha dwell in and protect the river, in turn protecting the valley and its hap.
