Samoan Toki

I recently completed a special commission for a Toki carved from Kawakawa Pounamu, sourced from the Hokitika area. This piece measures 8cm in length and carries deep cultural significance for its wearer, a man of Samoan heritage who has made New Zealand his home.

The design of the Toki was carefully crafted to weave together elements representing strength, prosperity, and family. At the center of the Toki, I carved a spearhead – a powerful symbol in Samoan culture. It signifies strength, resilience, and the prosperity associated with fishing, an essential aspect of Samoan life. This symbolism not only speaks to the cultural heritage of the client but also reflects his strength and perseverance in building a life in Aotearoa.

On each side of the Toki, I included shark teeth, an emblem of tenacity and determination like the shark itself. These teeth hold specific personal meanings: four on one side represent his daughters, and six on the other side symbolise his grandchildren, or mokopuna.

The final detail of this piece is the double koru at the bottom. This represents the blending of Māori and Samoan cultures, honouring the connection between the two as this Samoan man has found a home here in New Zealand. It was important to capture this cultural unity within the carving, representing his journey and the harmony between these two cultures.

I documented each stage of the carving process, from the initial cutting and grinding to the careful shaping, sanding, and intricate carving of the details. This process is always a journey, revealing the beauty within the stone and shaping it into a taonga that will be treasured for generations.

In the end, this Toki is more than just a carving; it’s a deeply personal taonga that embodies the strength, perseverance, and cultural unity of its wearer. Each detail, from the spearhead to the shark teeth and the double koru, tells a part of his story and journey. It’s an honour to craft pieces like this, knowing they will hold such significance and become part of the legacy for generations to come.