Te Ngaru Māhaki

This taonga is named Te Ngaru Māhaki, meaning “the gentle wave.” The name speaks to the balance of movement and calm, power and control. A wave carries strength, but it is not always forceful — it can be steady, quiet, and purposeful. This reflects the journey of a young man growing into himself, shaped by the experiences around him, especially his connection to the moana. The wave symbolises his love of surfing and spearfishing, but also the deeper idea of navigating life with composure and resilience. The recessed wave with its carved notches represents the shaping forces along that journey — the challenges, lessons, and influences that have helped form his character and will continue to guide him forward.

This Hei Toki was carved as a 16th birthday gift from a father to his son, marking an important stage of growth and transition. The toki form traditionally represents strength, courage, and determination — qualities that align strongly with the kaupapa of this piece. Combined with the flowing wave design, it tells a story of quiet, grounded strength rather than force or dominance.

The taonga is carved from Kokopu Pounamu and measures 7cm in length. The stone carries deep green tones with natural patterning that comes alive when held to the light. It is Ngāi Tahu authenticated (code: B2011GSD), connecting it directly to the whenua it comes from. The design features a recessed wave running through the centre of the toki, with two notches carved alongside it, adding depth and movement to the piece while reinforcing the symbolism of life’s shaping forces.

I also documented the creation of this taonga, capturing the process from raw stone through to the finished piece. There’s something special about seeing that transformation — how the form slowly reveals itself and the meaning becomes visible in the stone. That full journey can be seen on my YouTube channel.

This piece was a privilege to carve. There’s something meaningful about creating a taonga that marks a moment like this — a father recognising who his son is becoming, and giving him something to carry forward into the next stage of his life.