Mauri: a picture book with a message of care for our taiao

Mauri

Merryn Jones 
Illustrated by Isobel Te Aho-White 
Translated by Kanapu Rangitauira

Stunning bilingual book shares a Māori world-view of care for our natural environment

‘Mauri’ means ‘spirit’, and spirit infuses Merryn Jones’ telling of how Papatūānuku (the Earth Mother) and Ranginui (the Sky Father) care for our natural environment.

As Papatūānuku awakens, Ranginui asks their divine children to bring the rain, sunshine, wind and moonlight she needs to give life to the forests and creatures.

One by one the children present their gifts to nourish the Earth, bringing forth life and harmony. 

When Papatūānuku tires of her work, Hine-nui-te-pō (Goddess of the night) wraps her in her arms, saying: ‘All things are joined together as one — Te kopunga tae noa ki te pu au’.

This gorgeous picture book is a vibrant collaboration between the Hawke’s Bay-based Merryn and and Wellington-based illustrator Isobel Te Aho-White, with translation by Kanapu Rangitauira of Rotorua. 

It goes on sale in all good bookstores this Thursday 22 October.

Author Merryn Jones says that 'Mauri is a love story to our environment, our taiao. This story uses a te ao Māori approach to explore the interconnectedness of the environment and the mauri (life force) of the land, rivers, sea and sky, and all those that dwell in those places.

'It is ultimately a story of hope for the Earth, while gently inviting us to be mindful that all life is dependent on how these precious connections are maintained.'

The author, illustrator and translator

Merryn Jones (Ngāti Rakaipaaka, Ngāti Kahungunu, Pākehā) is a senior medical adviser who has a Diploma in Writing Stories for Childrenand is also a glass artist. In March 2026 Nightengale Books UK published her chapter book Spencer’s Speech, which tells about bravery, friendship and finding your voice She lives in Heretaunga/Hastings.

Isobel Te Aho-White (Ngāti Kahungunu, Kāi Tahu, UK, Denmark) has won numerous awards for her illustration of children’s books, and authored her own first book in 2025. She lives in Te Whanganui-a Tara/Wellington.

Kanapu Rangitauira (Te Arawa, Ngāti Porou, Te Whakatōhea) is a registered translator and teacher of te reo Māori who has translated a number of Oratia’s children’s books. He lives with his whānau in Rotorua.

Publication Date: 22 October 2026 | ISBN: 9781990042966 | RRP $22.99 Paperback, 270 x 210 mm, 32 pages, colour