Ngākau Whai – The Heart of the Stingray

Description

This taonga, carved by David Curtis, carries the name Ngākau Whai, meaning The Heart of the Stingray. The name speaks directly to the form of the piece, where the flowing structure naturally reveals a heart shape. It reflects both the physical design and the deeper connection to the whai — a creature known for its quiet strength, awareness, and graceful movement through the moana.

The design is a modern interpretation of the whai. The head draws down to a focused, directional point, while the body lifts and folds back in sweeping curves that attach at different points. These layered arcs create a strong sense of motion, as if the piece is gliding through water, while still holding a grounded, steady presence.

The heart form adds another layer of meaning. It speaks to connection — to the ocean, to the creatures within it, and to an appreciation of how fortunate we are to share that space with such graceful beings. The whai moves with calm control, close to the ocean floor, aware and balanced. That energy is carried through this taonga.

Carved from Kawakawa Pounamu, the stone holds deep green tones with natural variation throughout. The material brings weight and grounding to the flowing design, balancing movement with strength. The three-dimensional shaping allows light to move across the surface, revealing depth and shifting contours as it is worn.

This is a statement piece. It steps into a contemporary form while still holding the essence of the whai — strength, calmness, and connection. A taonga that sits between movement and stillness, carrying both presence and meaning.

Size: 80mm across

Material: Kawakawa Pounamu/Nephrite

Location: Hokitika

Carver: David Curtis