Ko Mauao te Maunga - Legend of Mauao - The Kiwi Kids' Bookstore

The history of Mauao, along with the legend, is one of heartbreak and struggle, but also one of endurance, strength and unity. Mauao stands guard at the entrance to Te Awanui, the Tauranga Harbour. At over two million years old, he is a tipuna and sacred taonga, manifesting both the past and the present, as well as giving us hope for the future.

The book commemorates the return of Mauao to Tauranga iwi in 2008, the creation of joint management under Ngā Poutiriao ō Mauao in 2013, and the recognition of Mauao as wāhi tapu in 2014.

Ownership of Mauao today rests with Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāti Pūkenga (with Waitaha iwi recognised) through the Mauao Trust. The maunga is cared for by Ngā Poutiriao ō Mauao (Guardians of Mauao), a partnership between the Mauao Trust and Tauranga City Council.

Contents include: glossary and pronunciation guide • Mauao facts • maps • Mauao timeline • Mauao place names • oral traditions (karakia, songs, whakatauki) • M...