Whale Rider
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Pai
Main character and the new ‘whale rider’
Born into a line of chiefs
Has all the qualities of a leader
Struggles against gender stereotypes and Koro
Koro
Chief
Pai’s grandfather; loves Pai but clashes with her
He raises Pai after her mother dies during childbirth and her father (Porourangi) leaves to go overseas
Nanny Flowers
Pai’s grandmother; loves and supports her
She raises Pai after her mother dies during childbirth and her father (Porourangi) leaves to go overseas.
Porourangi
Pai’s father; loves her despite leaving
In line to be next chief, but chooses a career in art instead
Clashes with Koro
Rawiri
Pai’s uncle
Showed potential when younger, but was never considered as a leader
Others in the community will follow his lead
Hemi
A local school boy, whose father is often absent
Part of Koro’s boys’ school for leadership training
Grows to respect Pai