David lives off-grid in rural North Canterbury in a mud brick home he built with his family. With a background in architectural design spanning 30 years, he brings a deep understanding of form, balance, and natural connection to his carving. His taonga reflect a life shaped by creativity, care for the environment, and a strong sense of place. Of European heritage, David draws inspiration from natural forms, diverse cultural influences, and the deep symbolism of Pounamu to create pieces that carry meaning and presence.
Carved by David Curtis from vibrant raukaraka pounamu, this niho celebrates the strength to choose your own path. Prominent points along the edges symbolise moving through life with purpose and determination, while three decorative notches represent the past, present, and future supporting every step of your journey. Suspended from a simple hole on a black cord, this taonga is a reminder to move forward with courage, resilience, and confidence.
Carved by David Curtis, Te Ara Ora (The Path of Life) is a 55mm tuna porohita crafted from beautiful kawakawa pounamu. Intricately carved on both sides with pāua eyes, flowing koru-inspired fins, and a concealed suspension, it symbolises resilience, adaptability, and life’s continuous journey.
A modern, angular Hei Matau carved from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu. Strong lines, recessed bevels, and defined edges give this piece a grounded, purposeful presence. Bound with a black cord, it carries a sense of direction, strength, and deliberate movement.
A flowing Hei Matau carved by David Curtis from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu. At 80mm long, its strong curves and defined hook reflect resilience, guidance, and inner strength.
Carved by David Curtis, Te Kaitiaki is a beautifully detailed Manaia pendant measuring 90 mm long. Flowing in the shape of a roimata, the design forms an elegant bird’s head with finely carved spiral details creating the eye and sweeping beak. Finished with a traditional three-hole ring bolt lashing on a tan cord, this one-of-a-kind taonga symbolises protection, guidance, and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
A 70mm Hei Matau carved from Kawakawa Pounamu with a bird’s head and a notched blade. A taonga that honours the provider across land and sea.
Carved by David Curtis from rich kawakawa pounamu, this 60 mm niho combines the enduring symbolism of the taniwha tooth with an elegant koru carved into its inner face. Suspended from a hidden hole, the design flows naturally from strength into growth, representing resilience, protection, and the ability to keep moving forward through life’s challenges.
A 75mm niho carved from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu, revealing both polished stone and its natural rind. One side is smooth and finished, while the other holds the dark, oxidised skin of the stone, grounding the piece in its origins. The niho appears to emerge from the raw form itself, reflecting its name — a tooth born from the land. Bound with a hidden hole and black three-braid cord, this taonga carries strength shaped by whenua and the journey from raw stone to finished form.
Carved by David Curtis from luminous kahurangi pounamu, this delicate 50 mm roimata is designed for effortless everyday wear. Its gently bevelled lower edge gives the pendant a refined profile, while the simple black drop-hole lashing follows the sides of the carving to complement its clean lines. A taonga that symbolises compassion, healing, resilience, and emotional strength.
A modern, angular Hei Matau carved from Kawakawa Pounamu, defined by offset recessed bevels that shift across each face. One side rises, the other draws inward, creating a sense of movement and contrast. Bound with a black cord, this piece speaks to navigating change, adapting direction, and finding strength in difference.
Te Whao Roimata – The tears of the chisel. This speaks to the marks left by a life of effort, growth, and creation. Carved from deep, dark Kawakawa Pounamu, this 85mm Roimata carries a soft rind at the base and a cloud-like feature within the stone, reflecting the depth and individuality of the person who wears it.
The toki symbolises strength, determination, and resilience. Toki Koi, carved from Kawakawa Pounamu, carries these meanings — its name Koi referring to sharpness, insight, and clarity.
Carved by David Curtis, this realistic tiger shark tooth is crafted from dark kawakawa pounamu with a lighter natural rind that has been textured to represent the upper section of the tooth. Measuring approximately 40 mm high by 60 mm wide, the finely serrated edges and strong, durable stone create a striking and authentic piece. It is suspended on a tan three-plait cord and glows beautifully when held to the light.
Hei Matau shaped like a hollow wave, carved from Kawakawa Pounamu with white rind like ocean spray. A taonga for those connected to the ocean and guided by its power.
