Lagi-atea is named in the canonical lists of the tupua, the principal gods of Niue, alongside Fao, Huanaki and Fakahoko. The first element of the name is the common Polynesian and Niuean word lagi, 'sky, heaven.' In the Pulekula tradition Lagi-atea is one of the band of tupua who left the lost land of Fonuagalo because they were slighted at its ceremonies and came to settle on Niue once Fao and Huanaki had raised the island. Like Fakahoko, Lagi-atea is one of the supporting tupua rather than one of the two active island-makers, but is consistently counted among the founding gods.