Designs and their meanings
Toki
Representing strength, courage, and determination, the toki is a wearable piece styled after the traditional toki (adze) used for cutting and carving wood.
Roimata (teardrop)
Roimata, meaning tears, symbolises healing, grief, and a strong connection with the land.
Mere
Mere were originally a weapon used by warriors in hand-to-hand combat. Often passed down through generations, they were thought to embody the spirits of previous owners and seen as the ultimate symbol of strength, mana (authority), and status.
Kōuma (Breastplate)
Resembling breastplate armour, kōuma represent strength and protection, providing guardianship to the wearer.
Niho (tooth)
Modelled on shark or whale teeth, niho represent strength, leadership, and a connection to the ocean (moana).
Adze (Toki)
Modelled on the the original wood-carving toki, this is a larger display piece. The toki represents strength, courage and determination.
Hei Tiki
The hei tiki is a physical representation of humankind and one's ancestors. They are traditionally passed through generations.
Fern
The silver fern (ponga) is a symbol of national identity for New Zealanders. The fern can symbolise strength, resistance, power and a connection to Aotearoa.
Tekoteko Toki
A tekoteko is a carved human form, representing tribal ancestors who provide protection and guardianship to the tribe. Wooden tekoteko often take the prominent position at the peak of the gable on wharenui (meeting houses). Our tekoteko toki combine a human head and the traditional toki profile.
Hei Matau (Fish Hook)
The hei matau is a stylised fish hook and symbolises strength, prosperity, and safe travel over water.
Koru
Modelled after the unfurling new growth of the native ponga (tree fern), the koru represents new beginnings, growth, and peace.
Pikorua (Twist)
The pikorua represents bonds between partners, friends, or whānau. It is styled after two intertwining fern fronds.
Manaia
Of mythical origin, the manaia is a guardian and messenger between our world and the spiritual world. Varying in design, it is often portrayed as a creature with the head of a bird, the body of a man, and the tail of a fish. It is believed to watch over, and protect, the wearer.