Details

Step into the mysterious world of taniwha, the legendary supernatural beings of Aotearoa, in this beautifully illustrated book by award-winning author and illustrator Gavin Bishop. Blending traditional Maori storytelling with breathtaking artwork, Taniwha introduces young readers to the powerful guardians, shapeshifters, and fearsome creatures said to inhabit the rivers, forests, mountains, and seas of New Zealand.

From the taniwha that travelled with ancestral waka to those that continue to watch over the whenua and moana, these captivating stories explore how the landscape was shaped and the enduring relationship between Maori and these extraordinary beings. Filled with dramatic illustrations and rich cultural storytelling, this monster-sized book is both thrilling and educational.

Storylines Notable Non-fiction Book 2025

Key Features:

Retells traditional Maori stories about the taniwha of Aotearoa
Stunning full-colour illustrations by award-winning creator Gavin Bishop
Explores Maori legends, cultural traditions, and the natural landscape
Introduces taniwha as guardians, shapeshifters, and mythical creatures
Encourages curiosity about New Zealand history, mythology, and storytelling
Ideal for families, classrooms, and young readers

Product Details:

Author & Illustrator: Gavin Bishop
Format: Hardback
Pages: 64
ISBN: 9781776957446
Publisher: Penguin
Published: 14 October 2025
Ideal For: Children, families, educators, libraries, and readers interested in Maori legends, mythology, and New Zealand culture

Disclaimer: COLOUR VARIATION – we try to ensure images match the actual product; slight variations may occur due to device colour settings.