Snaring the Sun

Maui found the days too short, for the sun moved too fast across the sky. With the assistance of his brothers he therefore made stout ropes and a noose. Then the five hid themselves far to the east, by the edge of the world whence the sun was wont to rise, building on each side a long, high clay wall with hides at each end. The noose was stretched and, when the sun rose well up into the snare, the ropes were pulled tight. Thereupon the hero rushed forward with his enchanted jawbone and belaboured the unfortunate captive so sorely that, when released, the sun could merely hobble slowly across the sky.