Kohu Maunga (ˈkɔ.hu ˈmaʊŋa)

Kohu Maunga is a mountain range that runs the length of Atu Motu, dividing the island into two distinct sections. While Kohu Maunga refers to the entire range, other names are used to refer to distinct sections along its length. It has sixteen peaks that are higher 9,000 feet high, including the highest point in Atuao'umi, Te Tihi. The heights of Kohu Maunga are shrouded in mist and fog throughout most of the year.

The range is bisected by deep valleys, several of which have lakes. The largest of these is Anuroto, a 112 square mile lake high in the northeastern part of the range. Anuroto means 'Cold Lake', and it is covered by a thin sheet of ice throughout the year.

There are three large passes that allow travel through the mountain range. The northernmost is called Arahanga Teitei. It is the highest, and passes through Anuroto valley at an elevation of 3,018 feet. The second mjor pass is a little lower and is near the center of the island; it is called Arahanga Tawhai. The southernmost pass is the lowest, with an elevation of only 1,844 feet, and is called Arahanga Pāpaku. The village of Te Mānawa is near the eastern end of Arahanga Pāpaku, and has long served as a meeting place for the southern hapū from both east and west of the Kohu Maunga.

Kohu Maunga is a geologically active area. Hot springs, geysers, and other geothermal phenomena are common, as are earthquakes and tremors. In the rainy season, mudslides are not uncommon on the eastern side of the mountains, and avalanches can occur in the higher altitudes. The Tāngata believe that these occurances are within the control of the Atua of the mountains, and that appropriate honors to the gods can keep travelers safe.

Notable Spirits

Kohu Maunga does not have a single Atua that represents the entire range, but is instead home to dozens of different gods. The great peak of Te Tihi is said to be the gathering place of the Atua, where they meet to discuss matters of importance. Each mountain, valley, stream, and tree are said to have their own spirit or deity, many known only to the local villages. However, there are a few of the Atua of Kohu Maunga who stand out from the crowd.

Tāwhaitane is the Atua of Arahanga Tawhai, the middle passage of the Kohu Maunga. His domain is a forest of beech trees that dominates the central valley of the pass, and he is known to be a guardian of the forest and its animals. Birds are particularly beloved of Tāwhaitane, and those who wish to travel through Arahanga Tawhai are cautioned not to hunt them during their journey.

Rangimārō is the Atua of Anuroto, and the gatekeeper of Anurangi, the underworld of the Tāngata. She is said to stand upon the lakes surface with a staff and lantern, and open holes in the ice for the eidolons of the deceased to pass through. She is invisible in the daylight, but can sometimes be glimpsed by starlight when the moon is not shining. Her knowledge is as vast as the night sky, but approaching her is very dangerous, as the petitioner must walk across the thin ice of the lake to her feet.

Type

Mountain Range

Location under

Atu Motu

Included Locations

• Te Tihi

Geographic Details

Location: Southern Region
Latitude: 3.06 degrees South
Longitude: 0.55 degrees East 
Highest Point: 9,800 ft (Te Tihi)
Length: 310 miles