Paikea was an important ancestor of the Māori tribes in Uawa (Tolaga Bay) on the East Coast of the North Island of Aotearoa (New Zealand). (The Māori are the indigenous Polynesian people of Aotearoa.) ... (Hawaiki is understood as the original home of the Polynesian peoples, before dispersal across Polynesia.)

Why is Paikea important in whale rider?

Paikea has an intrinsic connection with right whales, an important symbol for her tribe. She stands up for what she believes even in the face of the adults around her, and isn't afraid to take risks to do what's right.

What is the significance of the name Paikea?

Paikea belongs to a Maori tribe whose legendary tribal leader, the whale rider, was also called Paikea.