Haltija

Haltija are the Finnish equivalent of elves, and there are many different subspecies found in Finland. They have great strength in proportion to their size (often about two feet tall).

Some are divided into races or folk groups called väki.

Tonttu

The tonttu are house elves, and provided the inspiration to Muggles for Santa’s elf helpers. In Sweden they are known as tomte or tomtegubbe. Tonttu are generally described as being short, having a long white beard, and wearing a conical or knit cap in red or some other bright colour.

A house elf which takes care of the home specifically is called Kotihaltija. They live in the house and take care of it and it is very important to treat them with respect.

At Christmas, wix homes are visited by Joulutonttu. Unlike the Christmas elves in some countries, the Finnish joulutonttu doesn't have pointy ears.

Tonttu who take home in ships are known as skeppstomte.

Veden Väki - Water Haltija

These water folk emerge from the sea, wear hats and boots made of stone, and can change their height at will. They are good, helpful elves. Their power over water can cause it to poison anyone who drinks or swims in it, if crossed, or imbibe it with healing magic. Finnish wixes summon them for healing, but they can also help with tasks such as cleaning water or fishing. Their leader is Ahti, the king of the sea.

Metsän Väki - Forest Haltija

These forest folk take care of the Finnish forests. They can help with felling trees. Their leader is Tapio, the king of the forest.

Tulen väki - Fire Haltija

Houses with a sauna also have a saunatonttu, who keeps order and behaviour in the sauna. These elves are spirits of fire, who use the healing power of warm air. If crossed call upon the destructive forces of fire.

Kalman Väki - Death Haltija

These nocturnal elves take care of ghosts, spirits and the magical power that can be found in a graveyard. This power can make people ill and it can also be used against other people. The passage of the soul of a dead person to the afterlife is very important to Finnish wixes.