Toki Whakatipu

I recently completed Toki Whakatipu, an 8cm-long commission carved from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu, as a gift for a couple getting married. This piece is a companion to the Mātau Whakatipu, which I created earlier as a symbol of growth and new beginnings. Together, these taonga form a meaningful set, each complementing the other in their design and significance.

The Toki Whakatipu features a koru carved into its front, mirroring the koru that I included in the Mātau Whakatipu design. The koru is a traditional Māori symbol representing new life, growth, strength, and peace. By including it in both pieces, I aimed to create a connection between them, symbolising the unity and shared journey of the couple as they start their new life together.

The Toki itself is a symbol of strength and resilience. It embodies the qualities of leadership, perseverance, and determination—values that are integral to a strong partnership. Paired with the Mātau, which represents guidance and connection, the Toki reinforces the strength of their bond and the new path they are walking together.

To learn more about the Mātau Whakatipu and how it connects to this piece, you can read the full story here.

This set of Pounamu taonga is more than just a pair of pendants. It is a reflection of the couple’s shared commitment, the growth they will experience together, and the strength that will carry them through the journey of marriage. I feel privileged to have been a part of their story through these carvings.