Toki Whai Hononga – A Set of Hei Toki for Two Brothers

These two Hei Toki were carved as a continuation of a story that began with their father. A few years ago, I made him a Toki named Hononga, a piece that carried the kaupapa of connection — connection to people, to place, and to the whenua of Te Wai Pounamu. When he asked me to create taonga for his boys, I went back to the same block of Hapopo Pounamu from South Westland. I was able to find pieces within it that matched the stone I used for Hononga, allowing their Toki to carry the same origins and continue the story forward. You can see the original toki and story here: https://campbellcarving.co.nz/hononga-toki-hapopo-pounamu-connection/

The Hapopo is pale green and beautifully translucent, with swirling patterns that shift as you turn the stone in your hand. Each Toki has its own character. One sits around 50–60mm long, compact and a little thicker, giving it a solid presence. The other is close to 70mm and slightly wider, with softer curves and more open patterning. Even though they come from the same stone, they feel distinct — something that often mirrors the individuality of the people who wear them.

The meaning of the Toki is important in this set. Traditionally, the Toki symbolises strength, determination, and purpose. It represents the tools used for carving, building, shaping, and creating. In this case, the meaning connects back to their father’s piece, Hononga. His Toki was about the way he builds connections with people and the thoughtfulness he carries into the world. His sons now have their own Toki carved from the same Pounamu, each shaped to reflect their personalities and the different paths they will take.

It is special to work with Pounamu that continues a shared family narrative, and it meant a lot to be able to give them taonga that will grow with them over time.