Hononga – Connections

I recently carved a special Toki from a stunning piece of Hapopo Pounamu, gifted to a good friend who embodies the essence of making connections with others. The stone is a bright green with darker swirls, showcasing the natural beauty of Hapopo Pounamu. This Toki is 6cm in length and features two koru carved into the front, representing ‘hononga’ – the connection between people and the bonds that tie us together.

The Toki shape carries deep significance in its own right. Traditionally, it was a tool used for carving and shaping, symbolising strength, courage, and the act of creation. When I carve a Toki, I see it as a way to embody the strength and skill of those who connect and build relationships. In this piece, the koru designs reflect the ever-growing connections we make throughout our lives.

Carving Pounamu as gifts is my way of expressing thoughts and feelings that can be hard to convey otherwise. I’m not a super expressive person, so when I want to share something meaningful with someone, I carve my thoughts into reality through the stone. The resulting piece, like ‘Hononga,’ becomes an anchor for me, emphasising what I truly want them to know. It’s a tangible expression of connection, crafted with care and intention.