Mere – Te Whakamana

This is the first full-sized mere I’ve ever carved—a taonga that holds real weight, in every sense. At 36cm long and 12cm wide, this is a substantial and commanding piece. Made from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu from the Hokitika region, it is large, solid, and purposeful—carved to reflect both strength and dignity.—a taonga that holds real weight, in every sense. Made from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu from the Hokitika region, this mere is 36cm long and 12cm across at its widest point. It’s large, solid, and purposeful—carved to reflect both strength and dignity. The handle is bound with muka cord made in the traditional way from harakeke, giving the piece an authentic finish that ties it back to the land and the people.

I’ve named this taonga Te Whakamana—”To Uplift, To Honour”. This name speaks to the kaupapa of the mere: a symbol of authority, leadership, and the responsibility that comes with both. Mere were once carried by rangatira, not just as weapons, but as signs of their mana, their role as protectors, and their standing among their people.

A mere represents strength, prestige, and legacy. It is a powerful symbol of mana and leadership. Traditionally, mere were gifted to recognise courage, honour service, or mark someone as a leader. To receive a mere is to be acknowledged as someone who holds wisdom and responsibility. Gifting a mere is not done lightly—it binds the giver and the recipient in shared respect and purpose.

This 36cm by 12cm piece isn’t ornamental—it’s grounded, connected. It was carved with deep respect for the tradition it comes from, and for the stone itself. Kawakawa Pounamu is known for its rich, vibrant green and spiritual strength. As I worked this piece, I thought often about the significance of creating something that, in the past, would only be held by those chosen to lead and guide.

Holding a mere like this one connects you to the whenua, to those who came before, and to the values of courage, wisdom, and service. It’s not something made lightly. Carving this mere has reminded me that some pieces aren’t just taonga—they’re milestones.