Ponaturi

The Ponaturi (scientific name: Goblinus horribilis oceanis) were a hostile population of goblins originating from Polynesian mythology, specifically in Māori legends.

Biology

The Ponaturi were a race or subspecies of goblins that were semiaquatic, with an ability to inhale oxygen from both air and water. They had greenish-white skin and elongated fingers that ended with sharp claws. The Sun was fatal to them, which meant that their skin could burn from sunlight. The Ponaturi, like other goblins, were carnivores, consuming only animal-based products.

Society and culture

The Ponaturi lived in an underwater realm located somewhere near New Zealand, returning to the shore each year to sleep. They were found to be malevolent hostiles, stealing treasure and family members from humans. And in their culture, they also practiced magic.

Mythology

The Ponaturi appear in a number of stories in Māori legends, such as:

• a story of Tāwhaki. The Ponaturi kill Tāwhaki's father Hemā, and carry his body away. They also capture Urutonga, Tāwhaki's mother, whom they put to work as the doorkeeper of their house Manawa-Tāne. In revenge, Tāwhaki and Urutonga block up all the holes of the house to make the Ponaturi think that it is still night. They then suddenly let in the rays of the sun, and all the dreadful creatures are destroyed.

• a story of the hero Rātā. The Ponaturi carry off his father's bones and use them to beat time when as they practice their magical arts. Rātā hides himself, learns their incantations, and recites a more powerful spell called Titikura. He then attacks them, kills their priests, and recaptures his father's bones. The Ponaturi regroup and chase Rātā, but with the aid of his warriors and his powerful incantations he defeats and kills a thousand of them.