Hei Matau
These very stylized fish hooks represent strength, prosperity, fertility, and abundance.
They also represent a great respect for the sea and provide safety and luck when traveling over water. They are also symbols
of power and authority.
Koru
The spiral design is called Koru and represents the fern frond as it opens. The Koru represents peace,
tranquility, spirituality, regrowth and a strong sense of new beginnings. The Koru is also often interlocked with the Hei
Matau and when used this way add an element of strength and prosperity.
A carving that is worn with respect or given and received with aroha (love) takes on the spirit of
those who wear it or handle it. A carving that is worn by many generations becomes a link to ancestors and becomes truly taonga
(sacred). Each carving absorbs oils from the skin of the wearer and over time will change colour, often to a light gold as
can be seen with traditional ivory.
Each carving is hand made and although the basic designs may be similar no two carvings are identical.
The photographs in the catalog are only an indication of what is possible and of previously manufactured carvings, if you
would rather design your own I am happy to discuss this with you.
