Ngarara Huarau

Description

This graphic novel set in New Zealand that tells the story of Ngarara Huarau, a taniwha or mythical beast, that travels from Hawke's Bay to Wairarapa in search of his sister, Pari-kawhiti. As he journeys, his movement shapes the landscape, and his hunger leads him to eat birds, seals, seafood and people, causing terror as he travels south. Finally, the Wairarapa people of Ngati Tara ask Tupurupuru and his warriors to kill Ngarara Huarau. Tupurupuru constructs a trap and the warriors set upon Ngarara Huarau with weapons, and he sinks into the Uwhiroa swamp. But did he die?

Awards

Shortlisted for the Te Kura Pounamu Award for Te Reo Maori at the NZ Book Awards for Children & Young Adults 2017

Author description

Maxine Hemi is Education Strategy Curriculum Developer for Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa based in Masterton, New Zealand. Previously, she was Lead Advisor at the Ministry of Education, a teacher at Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Wairarapa, Head of Department at Linwood College and Principal of Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Wairarapa and Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Te Rotoiti.