Te Manawa o te Wā

The name Te Manawa o te Wā means The Heart of Time. It speaks to the quiet truth at the centre of this taonga — that time is the most precious gift we are given. This toki was commissioned by a son whose mother, at 86, is nearing the end of her life. When she asked him what he wanted for his birthday, he answered simply, “More time with you.” That answer sits at the heart of this piece.

A toki traditionally symbolises strength, courage, and determination. It represents the tool of a carver — something that shapes and forms the world around it. In this case, the strength is not loud or forceful. It is the strength of a mother. The strength of enduring love. The strength to face grief while still holding gratitude. The prominent koru carved into the front reinforces this meaning. The koru speaks of new beginnings, continuity, and the unfolding of life. Even as one chapter closes, another continues. The spiral reminds us that love does not end — it transforms and carries forward.

This toki is 70mm long, giving it strong presence while still remaining personal and wearable. It is carved from beautiful Kawakawa Pounamu. There are significant dark inclusions running through parts of the stone, grounding it with character and depth. In contrast, other sections open up into gem-grade translucency, glowing when held to the light. That contrast feels fitting — light and shadow existing together, just as joy and sorrow often do.

The koru on the front is large and prominent for its size, deliberately so. It anchors the piece visually and symbolically. The curve of the spiral holds the idea of perpetuity — something that continues beyond what we can see. This taonga was created to be worn now as a reminder of a mother’s presence, and one day to be passed to the next generation. In that way, it becomes a bridge between mother, son, and grandchildren — a physical embodiment of whakapapa and memory.

Carving this piece required care and restraint. At 70mm, every line still matters. Every curve must hold intention. There is something powerful about creating a small taonga that carries such significant meaning. It reminds me that scale does not determine impact — connection does.

Te Manawa o te Wā is not just a toki. It is a statement about love outlasting time.