Niho Whenua o Akaroa speaks to whakapapa, place, and the strength that comes from deep connection to whenua. This taonga was carved as a Christmas gift from a daughter to her mother, carrying with it the mother’s strong ancestral ties to Akaroa and the surrounding whenua. The name reflects this connection — niho as a…
Te Ruru translates simply to “The Owl,” carrying the calm presence, watchfulness, and protection of the ruru, the native owl of Aotearoa. It is a name that reflects both guidance and kaitiaki, and it connects directly to the role the ruru holds for his whānau. Choosing this name brings the focus to the guardian who…
Niho Tūhono means “the tooth that connects”. Tūhono is about linking, joining, and creating connection, which is the heart of this taonga. This name speaks to the bond shared between the couple, and to the way this piece continues the Niho pattern from her tattoo, linking her story with her partner’s. I carved this 5cm…
Te Kaieke means the rider, the one who moves forward with purpose and holds fast through challenge. I chose this name because the niho shape symbolises strength, determination, and guidance. It is often connected with the idea of a protector or guardian, something that carries a person through the hard moments in life. This taonga…
This beautiful set of five taonga, named Ngā Manawa Kotahi (The United Hearts), was carved from a single piece of beach serpentine Pounamu that the whānau found themselves while travelling Te Waipounamu. It was important to them that the stone come from this whenua—a place they feel rooted in, even while living far across the…
This stunning niho has been carved from a top-quality piece of Inanga Pounamu, named for the whitebait of our rivers. I’ve named this taonga Niho Marino, which translates to “Calm Tooth.” The name reflects both the peaceful, pale tones of the stone and the quiet strength symbolised by the niho form. It speaks to resilience…
This is a Niho (tooth) carved from beautiful Pounamu with a light green base and darker patterning running throughout. It is 55mm long and features a hidden hole for the lashing. The lashing is a natural tan colour, sitting neatly over the top of the stone. The Niho design symbolises the strength, determination, and resilience…
This is a Pounamu Niho, carved from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu, 55mm long. The four-hole ringbolt lashing in black secures the piece, reinforcing its strength and durability. The Niho (tooth) shape carries deep meaning. It symbolises strength, leadership, and protection, much like the teeth of a great animal or guardian. Traditionally, the niho shape is…
This Niho is carved from Ōnewa (basalt) that I personally collected from Akaroa, a place shaped by fire and sea. The deep grey stone carries the history of the land, formed through volcanic forces over thousands of years. This connection to the whenua gives the piece a sense of grounding and endurance. The Niho design…
As the year draws to a close, I’ve had the honour of creating a special set of taonga to recognise the contributions of the head students at my kura. This set of five Niho, carved from a single piece of Kawakawa Pounamu sourced from South Westland, embodies the connection these leaders have shared with each…
