Kaha me Toa
These two Hei Toki hold a special story, one that began long before they were shaped into their final forms. Their journey started when a mother went on a trip with some of her children to Hokitika and visited Arahura where she found these stones. Something about them called to her, a deep knowing that these pieces of Pounamu were meant for her sons, she chose three others for her other children too, those are yet to be carved. They went there to learn the kōrero of Waitaiki, the ‘mother’ of pounamu who is an important figure in her children’s whakapapa. Carefully, she selected them, carrying them home with the vision of them one day becoming taonga that would hold meaning and significance for her whānau.
The traditional meaning of the Hei Toki runs deep in Māori culture. Originally used as functional adzes for carving and building, they became symbols of strength, leadership, and determination. Worn as a taonga, a Toki represents the resilience to overcome challenges, the courage to carve one’s own path, and the wisdom to use strength with purpose. These qualities are embedded in Kaha and Toa, embodying the hopes and values a mother holds for her children.
The darker Hei Toki is named Kaha, symbolising strength—physical, emotional, and spiritual. It represents the unshakable foundation a person stands on, the ability to endure hardships, and the fortitude to push forward.
The lighter Hei Toki is named Toa, representing bravery—the courage to take risks, stand tall in the face of adversity, and embrace life’s challenges with determination. Together, these Hei Toki reflect the qualities a mother wishes for her sons—resilience, courage, and the unbreakable bond of whānau.
I have documented every step of this process in video—from the raw stones being cut, shaped, polished, and finally lashed. These videos allow others to witness the journey of transformation. From a mother’s hands to mine, and now to her sons, Kaha and Toa are more than just pendants—they are symbols of a mother’s love, the strength of whānau, and the enduring legacy of Pounamu.
The process of turning these beach-found stones into taonga was a journey of transformation. From the moment I cut into them, I could see the hidden beauty within—rich colours, natural patterns, and the depth that would come to life through carving. The shaping process required patience and precision, carefully refining the form of each piece while honouring the stone’s natural character. Polishing brought out their true colours and inner glow, revealing the depth of the Pounamu and the connection to their origins. Finally, the lashing, strong and secure, completed them—ensuring they could be worn with pride and purpose.
