Homonym: Papatūānuku (Earth)
Papatūānuku is a significant figure in Māori mythology, representing the Earth and the physical world. She is often referred to as the Earth Mother and is considered the source of all life. Papatūānuku is closely associated with nature, fertility, and the land, embodying the connection between people and the environment.
In Māori tradition, Papatūānuku is the partner of Ranginui, the Sky Father. Together, they had many children, including Tāne Mahuta, the god of forests and birds, and Tangaroa, the god of the sea. Their relationship symbolizes the balance between the earth and sky, highlighting the importance of harmony in the natural world.