Manaia

The manaia is a supernatural being, an iwi guardian, to ward off danger, to frighten away intruders. The manaia is a bird-like figure, a spiritual and mythical creature.

Some manaia were grotesque bird-like figures, others were almost human, but always with fierce facial expressions. Little is known about the true significance of specific designs, but there are certain common elements. The figures are usually depicted in side profile - part in the spiritual world, part in this.