Te Tiritiri o Te Moana

I recently completed a unique Pounamu Toki for a long-serving member of our school’s trust board, a man deeply connected to the outdoors and a steadfast supporter of both myself and our Outdoor Education programme. It was an honour to be asked to create this piece on behalf of the school to acknowledge his invaluable contributions.

This Toki is carved from deep green Kawakawa Pounamu, sourced from the Arahura River. It holds a special connection to the Southern Alps, which I’ve represented across the front of the piece. The pale green rind, almost white at the top, forms the snowy peaks, capturing the essence of Te Tiritiri o Te Moana, the Southern Alps of the South Island. This element was crucial in bringing the mountains to life on this taonga, highlighting the natural beauty of the landscape he loves.

Beyond its aesthetic, this Toki symbolises the challenges we all face and the importance of finding solutions and creating opportunities out of adversity. Just as the Southern Alps stand tall despite the elements, so too does this Toki embody resilience and strength. For me, this piece signifies the power of embracing obstacles, a quality that resonates strongly with his impact and dedication.

Creating Te Tiritiri o Te Moana was a privilege, blending my respect for both Pounamu and the connection we have to the land. This Toki will serve as a reminder of the enduring impact he has had on our school community and his ongoing passion for the outdoors.