Turaga (Earth-4001)

Turaga were typically former Toa who had fulfilled their destiny and given up their Toa Power. Unlike Matoran, Turaga could access the powers of Kanohi, but only those of Noble Kanohi. They also had weak Elemental Powers.

Biology
Most of the powers that a Turaga possessed while they were a Toa disappears when they give up their Toa Power, but some abilities remain. Turaga can access the abilities of Noble Kanohi and are slightly stronger than Matoran, being roughly the same size or slightly taller. The exact level of elemental powers that Turaga possess has never been clarified. They don't have the same level of mastery of their element that they had as Toa, but they possess the basic elemental resistance of Matoran, but beyond that it is a mystery.

Culture
Turaga are generally the rulers of Matoran settlements, having almost absolute authority over the Matoran and Toa of their realm. As a rule they have been shown to be wise, benevolent, and mature, guiding the Matoran with the wisdom gained from their experiences as heroes. However Turaga have been capable of lying, distrust, and even madness in the past.

Trivia

 * According to BIONICLE writer Greg Farshtey, there were more Turaga in the Matoran Universe than Toa.