Atua are the gods and spirits of the Polynesian peoples such as the Māori or the Hawaiians ; the Polynesian word literally means "power" or "strength" and so the concept is similar to that of mana. Today, it is also used for the monotheistic conception of God. Especially powerful atua include:
- Rongo-mā-Tāne – god of agriculture and peace;
- Tāne Mahuta – creator of all living things such as animals, birds and trees;
- Tangaroa – god of the sea;
- Tūmatauenga – a god of war; and
- Whiro – god of darkness and evil.
