Pouakai the man-eater

By Pauline Cartwright

Subjects: Birds, Juvenile literature, Pūrākau, Maori (New Zealand people), Fiction, Legends, Kōrero paki mā ngā tamariki, Folklore, Giants

Description: Small hunting parties are disappearing. Others return to the tribe with horrifying tales of a giant bird, Pouakai the man-eater, who casts a shadow over the sky. The people once laughing and happy are afraid to leave the pa. Something has to be done and Ruru has a plan. Suggested level: primary.