Te Mana Toki

Kia ora koutou! Today, I’m thrilled to share the heartfelt journey my daughter and I undertook in crafting a toki pendant from the revered Inanga Pounamu of the Arahura River. Our endeavor was more than a mere carving; it was a profound expression of love and empowerment.

“Te Mana Toki” translates to “The Power” in te reo Māori, encapsulating the essence of strength, determination, and leadership embodied by the tokī. Crafted from the layered Inanga Pounamu, this pendant symbolizes resilience and adaptability, echoing the challenges we overcame in its creation.

In our journey of carving Te Mana Toki, we encountered imperfections and unexpected hurdles. Yet, we embraced them as opportunities for growth, acknowledging that life’s twists and turns only serve to strengthen us.

With each stroke of the tools, we approached the task with reverence, mindful of the delicate nature of the stone. The layered structure of the Inanga Pounamu posed challenges, requiring us to round the edges to ensure durability without compromising its beauty.

As we sculpted the pendant, we infused it with our hopes and aspirations for our daughter’s future. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Te Mana Tokī became a tangible manifestation of our whānau bond and the values we hold dear.

In the end, holding Te Mana Toki in our hands filled us with immense pride. It serves as a reminder of our connection to the land, our whānau, and our cultural heritage. May its presence empower not only my daughter but all who wear it, resonating with the enduring spirit of Aotearoa.

Until next time, may Te Mana Tokī inspire and empower you on your journey. Arohanui from our whānau to yours.