The Meaning Behind The Koru

Of course, here in New Zealand greenstone is known most commonly by its Māori name ‘pounamu’, so pounamu shape meanings is another very common topic of conversation with our customers. 

Recently we wrote a blog about the meaning of the shape hei tiki. Hei tiki is a very recognisable form in Māori culture, and indeed throughout some polynesian cultures too. Check out our blog here.

The second most common shape found in pounamu carvings is the koru, so today we thought we’d write about the koru meaning and why it’s such a popular shape carved out of pounamu.

In Māori, the word ‘koru’ means fold, loop or coil. It is also the name of a curled shoot, on a ponga tree for example.

The associations of this word include new life, regeneration, continuation, whole, one, growth and peace. The representation of a koru is found in many places throughout Māori art and culture; from weaving to wood, bone and stone carving, to tattooing and other art mediums as well. 

Another similar form to touch on is the double koru meaning; usually represented by two koru within one circular form. This is widely regarded as a symbol of two lives growing together. Specifically as a nod to the Māori world (Te Ao Māori), the sky father (Ranginui) and earth mother (Papatūānuku) working together as one while being physically apart. 

Technically speaking the koru is a simpler shape to represent through art than other more complicated shapes such as hei tiki, and that possibly has something to do with how often we see this shape represented. 

But it’s the way that the koru can be applied to so many different situations through symbolism and spirituality that make it a popular choice for gifts.

Here at Moko Pounamu we have several koru artfully carved and ready to be viewed and purchased. Take a look at our collection to find a piece that catches your eye, and keep an eye out for our next blog as we go into more detail about the meaning behind another recognisable pounamu carving shape.