Toki Samoa

Carving Pounamu is always a meaningful process, but sometimes a piece carries even more depth, reflecting not just personal meaning but also cultural connections. This Toki is one of those pieces—a taonga that brings together the strength of Māori and Samoan traditions in a single form.

This Toki is carved from Kawakawa Pounamu, a deep green stone sourced from the Hokitika area. Kawakawa is one of the most recognised and treasured types of Pounamu, often chosen for its strong, rich colour and durability. It symbolises strength and determination, qualities that align well with the deeper meaning behind this piece.

The front of the Toki features a series of spearheads running down the middle. In Samoan tradition, spearheads symbolise strength, prosperity, and providing for family—values that are also deeply respected in Māori culture. Along the sides, I carved a row of shark teeth, another powerful Samoan symbol. Shark teeth represent power, guidance, and protection, offering the wearer resilience and wisdom in their journey through life.

This piece embodies the connection between Māori and Samoan traditions, blending the mana of Pounamu with the meaning behind these symbols. It represents the journey of those who walk in both worlds, honouring their heritage while carrying their values forward. This Toki is more than just a carved stone—it is a representation of identity, strength, and the ties that bind whānau and aiga together.