Maori legends tell how Maui changed himself into a lizard in an attempt to gain immortality. By reversing the birthing process and passing through the womb of Hine Nui Te Po - The Goddess of Death and out her mouth, Maui sought eternal life. This process was foiled by the Fantail, Tirairaka, who could not contain his mirth at the sight of Maui's entry. Hine Nui Te Po awoke and crushed Maui to death between her thighs.
This patu recalls that event and possesses the lizards thirst for utu and the desire to others share his fate, koina te take, hence the name Rere Ki Te Po, {to} fly into the darkness, where it will gladly dispatch those that come within its reach.
