Hei Tiki | Traditional

Reo Nui

E mihi ana ki a koe, nɑ̄ tou whakaako, nā tou kōrero, nā tou waiata hoki. E tangata motuhake koe ki a tātou. E mihi ana ki tou tautoko ki a mātou i ngā wā katoa. Ka wairua kaha mātou nā tou aro. Tēnā koe e hoa.

This Hei Tiki was carved as a gift for someone who has had a deep impact on me — a person whose voice, words, and teaching hold real power. It was created specifically for them, to acknowledge their strength in kōrero, waiata, and whakaako. When they speak, people listen. When they sing, the room lifts. Their ability to connect through language and sound is a taonga in itself, and this piece was my way of honouring that.

The Hei Tiki has a large head in proportion to the body, emphasising the mind and expression. The mouth features a wide, protruding tongue — a symbol of communication, assertion, and vitality. It represents the way this person uses their voice to influence and inspire others every day. For me, carving this taonga was a way to give form to their mana and to show how much their presence and words have meant in my own life.

This piece was carved from a single cobble of Pounamu that had completely oxidised over time, transforming from green to a pale creamy white with areas of soft orange and golden tone. The right shoulder holds a deeper orange patch, adding warmth and balance to the piece. On the back, a small untouched area of green remains — a subtle reminder of what the stone once was and a nod to the ongoing transformation that both people and stone experience. The colour and feel of the Pounamu almost resemble bone, smooth and gentle to the touch.

The Hei Tiki is 85mm high and 20mm thick, with inlaid pāua shell eyes that bring it to life. It hangs from a tan cord that complements the warmth of the stone. The overall look and feel of the piece reflect calm strength — the kind that comes from wisdom, connection, and the power of words well spoken.

Carving this taonga was personal and meaningful. It carries my respect and gratitude for someone whose voice continues to guide, uplift, and inspire.

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