Hei Tiki – Whakamaharatanga

This Hei Tiki, named Whakamaharatanga – meaning “to remember” – was carved as a special commission for someone wanting to honour and remember his father who has passed. It’s made from Serpentine Pounamu that I found on the beaches near Hokitika – a piece with deep dark green colouring and striking pale orange tones running through it. It stands 9cm high and features pāua shell eyes.

The Hei Tiki is one of the most recognisable and important traditional Māori forms. It symbolises ancestral connection, fertility, and remembrance. Often worn to honour tūpuna (ancestors), a tiki is believed to carry their spirit and strength, passed on to the next generation.

The images show the stages of the carving process. It begins with drawing the template onto the slice of Pounamu, then cutting out the rough outline. From there, I shape the body first, followed by the head. Each stage brings more form and balance to the tiki. The eyes go in last – once the face is ready – and they’re what really bring it to life.

I carved it in the traditional groove style often seen in older Hei Tiki, with a hidden hole tucked in behind the head for the lashing. The back of the head carries his father’s initials, making this taonga deeply personal.

This piece carries that intention – a memory, a tribute, and a connection across time.