Mauao - The Goddess and the Baby crafted in sterling silver, B3 belcher chain 84cm in length
Long ago, during the time of the Maori people, there was a nameless hill who resided in an isolated inland area. This hill was subservient to Otanewainuku, the most revered mountain in Tauranga Moana. Nearby, there was another hill named Puwhenua who was adorned with the beauty of Tanemahuta, the God of the Forest. The nameless hill desired the affection of Puwhenua, but she was already in love with Otanewainuku. The nameless hill was devastated by this and decided to end his life by drowning in Te Moananui-a-Kiwa, the Pacific Ocean. To achieve this, he called upon the patupaiarehe, a group of fairy people who lived in the dark corners of the forest and possessed magical powers.
 
When night fell, the patupaiarehe helped the nameless hill by lacing him with dozens of ropes and pulling him towards the ocean. As they heaved him along, they created a valley where the Waimapu river now flows. They continued their journey through Tauranga Moana until daybreak approached. Unfortunately, the patupaiarehe were exposed to the rays of the sun and had to retreat back to the forest, leaving the nameless hill unfinished.
 
In honor of the nameless hill, the patupaiarehe named him Mauao, which means "caught by the dawn". Over time, Mauao became highly regarded and gained prestige and mana over Otanewainuku, his once rival. Today, Mauao stands as a symbol of all tribes in Tauranga Moana and marks the entrance to Tauranga Harbor.