A phenominal Wahaika handcrafted from an outstanding piece of Totoweka Pounamu. The incredible range of colour in this epic carving is fantastic and the skill of a master carver really shines through, it truly makes this piece extraordinary and a definite collector’s piece. wonderfuly displayed on a handmade Rimu wood base, this will be a treasured taonga for many generations.
Wahaika- (roughly translated "the mouth of the fish") The carved figure on the edge represented a sacred ancestor or the god of war. The Wahaika was held so that the figure faced the warrior and looked over his shoulder to protect his back. The Maori people being fierce warriors used a wide range of hand weapons. The Wahaika is one of the many forms of fighting club used by Maori warriors and was reserved for only the highest ranking and most respected fighters. It is often given as a ceremonial piece on special occasions.
Totoweka- This stone is usually like the mid green Kawakawa variety but differs in that the spotting or streaks are red like blood. It is rare to find Totoweka in the Westland jade fields, but when a piece is discovered, it is highly cherished and sometimes becomes the show piece of the fossicker’s collection. Large deposits of Totoweka occur in the South Westland area. The name comes from toto (blood), weka (Native bush hen) or weka blood. The red iron oxide inclusions were likened to the colour of blood of the Weka.
Authentically sorced from Hokiauau/Big bay South Westland
A quality piece to be treasured and preserved for your children and children's children.
You will receive this exact Mere and stand as well as a wooden box for storage and shipping.
Hand Carved Des Hetherington
Waihaka Size 458mm long x 108mm wide x 25mm thick
Base Size 363mm long x 40mm wide x 89mm high
This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.
