Āhua Gallery

Kapeu are slender adornments with a slight bend at the bottom and were often worn as ear pendants. Kapeu were highly prized and a sign of high rank in Māori society. They are commonly also worn as neck pendants. As with many Māori personal adornments kapeu are often passed down generationally.

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 87mm x 22mm x 7mm

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 (Tangiwai)

Measurements: 64mm x 59mm

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

Material: Pounamu (Kawakawa)

Measurements: 45mm x 30mm