Haumia

In several tribal versions of the primary myths this Haumia, or Haumia-tikitiki, is given as one of the offspring of the primal parents, though apparently not included among them in Takitumu teachings.

We have seen that Haumia represents the aruhe, or edible rhizome of the bracken Pteris aquilina, that formed a very important part of the food-supply of the Maori. It was that very importance that caused it to be honoured by a special personification, for Haumia is never said to personify the plant (called rarauhe) but only its rhizomes (aruhe).

The fireside version of this myth is the story of Haumia taking refuge in the earth, wherein he buried himself, but omitted to page 185conceal his hair, which appeared above ground (in the form of the fronds of the Pteris, or bracken). Hence when man came along he saw this hair and so discovered Haumia, whom he promptly dug up, cooked, and ate.

The full name of Haumia is sometimes given as Haumia-tiketike (not tikitiki). Haumia is connected with Rongo in all matters concerning peace and the arts of peace. Another such being is Ioio-whenua, who, in a Bay of Plenty version, was one of the offspring of the primal parents.