Editing Māui (section)

{{Short description|Polynesian mythological hero and trickster}}
{{other uses|Maui (disambiguation)}}
'''Māui''' or '''Maui''' is the great [[culture hero]] and [[trickster]] in [[Polynesian mythology]]. Very rarely was Māui actually worshipped, being less of a [[deity]] ([[demigod]]) and more of a [[folk hero]]. His origins vary from culture to culture, but many of his main exploits remain relatively similar.<ref name="Craighill Handy 1927: 118">Craighill Handy 1927: 118</ref>

Tales of Māui's exploits and adventures are told throughout most of [[Polynesia]]; they can be traced back as far west as islands off [[New Guinea]]. Some exploits common to most Polynesian traditions are stealing fire for humans from the underworld, fishing up islands with his magical hook, and capturing the Sun to lengthen the days.<ref>Tregear 1891:233</ref> There is a great deal of variation in the representations of Māui from nation to nation, from being a handsome young man, to being an old wise wandering priest.<ref name="Craighill Handy 1927: 118"/> Although Māui was said to be very rascally or "kolohe", many of his deeds were to better the lives of his fellow people.