In Polynesian mythology, Maui was a powerful trickstermischievous figure appearing in various forms in the folktales and mythology of many different peoples god best known for creating the Pacific islands. A son of the god Tangaroa and a woman, he performed many deeds to improve the lives of humans, such as making the sky higher and the day longer. Endowed with magical powers, this small but exceedingly strong god and culture heromythical figure who gives people the tools of civilization, such as language and fire tried but did not succeed in achieving immortality.ability to live forever

Maui created the islands while out on a fishing trip with his brothers. First he fashioned a magic fishing hook from his grandmother's jawbone. Then, as his...