Āhua Gallery

Shark teeth were highly sought after to wear as a symbol of prestige for personal adornment. They were reflective of the mana of the shark itself. This tooth pendant references the tiger shark. This shark is an aggressive predator and is found mostly in tropical and warm waters. Tiger sharks are named for the dark, vertical stripes found mainly on juveniles.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 70mm x 60mm

Coastal and river-based Māori tribes traditionally used a variety of fishhooks and lures. Hooks and lures varied in shape, material and design. Today Hei Matau (fishhooks) have become symbolic of traditional Māori technology and continue to symbolize a relationship to Tangaroa, God of the sea.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 86mm x 58mm

Coastal and river-based Māori tribes traditionally used a variety of fishhooks and lures. Hooks and lures varied in shape, material and design. Today hei matau (fishhooks) have become symbolic of traditional Māori technology and continue to symbolize a relationship to Tangaroa, God of the sea.

Material: Pounamu (Tangiwai)

Measurements: 64mm x 59mm

The breastplate represents strength, serving as a shield and offering protection.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 46mm x 19mm x 6mm

Pōria Kākā are leg rings crafted from bone or stone used to keep pet kākā (parrots) from flying away. The giant kaka parrot was used by the Māori to assist them during hunting. The bird was used as a decoy to capture other kaka parrots.

As with many Māori items the kaka ring was both used as a tool as well as an adornment.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 35mm x 25mm x 4mm

Coastal and river-based Māori tribes traditionally used a variety of fishhooks and lures. Hooks and lures varied in shape, material and design. Today hei matau (fishhooks) have become symbolic of traditional Māori technology and continue to symbolize a relationship to Tangaroa, God of the sea.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 70mm x 86mm

The toki pendent is based on the form of the carving chisel used in whakairo (Māori carving).

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 50mm x 19mm x 6mm

The toki pendent is based on the form of the carving chisel used in whakairo (Māori carving).

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 50mm x 19mm x 7mm

Aurei were customarily used as a pin for fastening cloaks and may be made from bone, stone, wood or shell. They may also have been worn through the ear as an earring or around the neck as a pendant. Aurei are still commonly worn as pendants and earrings and as with most Māori personal adornments, are often passed down generationally.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 83mm x 10mm