This image shows a Taniwha and a Maori warrior:

This image was made by Robert Mihaere

The Maori. Maori pronunciation: Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. Māori originated with settlers from eastern Polynesia , who arrived in New Zealand in several waves of waka voyages somewhere between 1320 and 1350. Over several centuries in isolation, these settlers developed their own distinctive culture whose language, mythology, crafts and performing arts evolved independently from other eastern Polynesian cultures.The arrival of Europeans in New Zealand, starting in the 17th century, brought enormous changes to the Māori way of life. Māori people gradually adopted many aspects of Western society and culture. Initial relations between Māori and Europeans were largely amicable, and with the signing of the treaty of waitangi in 1840, the two cultures coexisted. Rising tensions over disputed land sales led to conflict in the 1860s, and massive land confiscations. Social upheaval, and epidemics of introduced disease took a devastating toll on the Māori population, which fell dramatically. By the start of the 20th century, the Māori population had begun to recover, and efforts have been made to increase their standing in wider New Zealand society and achieve social justice. Maori warriors were protectors for there Iwis, Hapu and Maraes they always made sure they were well taken care of. They made sure there families and friends were safe and protected them from danger. Maori warriors went hunting for food for there whanaus breakfast, lunch and dinner.

In Maori mythology, taniwha Māori pronunciation: taniwhas are beings that live in deep pools in rivers, dark caves, or in the sea, especially in places with dangerous currents or deceptive breakers giant waves. They may be considered highly respected kaitiaki protective guardians of people and places, or in some traditions as dangerous, predatory beings, which for example would kidnap women to have as wives.