A collection of nineteen tales from various Maori tribes of New Zealand about the trickster Maui, the Creation, monsters, birds, animals, and special places.

The Chevalier des Grieux meets and seduces the young Manon when she is being escorted by her brother to a convent. Manon lives with des Grieux in Paris, but leaves him for a rich admirer. She is later arrested, charged with prostitution, and deported to Louisiana. Des Grieux accompanies her and during an escape attempt she dies in his arms.

An effervescent comedic opera which includes Viennese dance music and an escapist plot.