Te Haepapa Tūturu

Te Haepapa Tūturu translates to “the enduring responsibility.” This name reflects a life shaped by service, where responsibility is not something carried lightly or temporarily, but something lived every day. This taonga was created to represent that steady commitment to others — to guiding, supporting, and helping people grow in challenging environments. It also acknowledges the role of whānau in that journey. Strength is not carried alone, and this set recognises the support of a partner and daughter, and the intention to pass on knowledge, experience, and values over time. The name speaks to something constant — a responsibility that continues, evolves, and is shared.

This whānau set is carved from authenticated Ngāi Tahu Pounamu, with the traceable code B2011GTH. Knowing where the stone comes from adds another layer of connection, allowing the wearer, and especially the next generation, to build their own understanding and relationship with the Pounamu and the whenua it comes from. The origin of this stone can be explored through the Ngāi Tahu Pounamu trace system here: https://www.newzealandpounamu.com/

The set includes a 65mm Pounamu toki for the father, and two roimata, approximately 50mm each, for his wife and daughter. All three pieces are carved from the same stone, carrying that shared origin through each taonga.

The toki is a traditional form, shaped to be worn every day. It has a subtle koru carved into the front, sitting within the form rather than dominating it. The toki symbolises strength, leadership, and responsibility — the role of guiding others and carrying knowledge. The koru represents growth through experience, the ongoing process of learning, adapting, and evolving over time.

The two roimata are long, simple, and balanced forms. The roimata is often associated with emotion, reflection, and strength through experience. In this set, they represent the support and presence of whānau — the people who stand beside us through the challenges and demands that come with responsibility. Their connection to the same piece of Pounamu reinforces that bond, a reminder that although each person carries their own role, they remain connected at their core.

I documented the making of this set from start to finish. From selecting and slicing the piece of Pounamu, through drawing the designs, cutting them out, grinding and shaping the forms, then sanding and finishing, and finally completing the lashing. Those images show the full journey this stone has taken — from its rough, natural state through to a finished taonga. It gives a clear insight into the process and the transformation that happens along the way.

This taonga was created to be worn, to be held, and to serve as a point of grounding. A reminder of responsibility, of service, and of the people who make that journey possible.

Carving this set was a privilege. There is real depth in a kaupapa like this — not just in the story, but in the intention behind each piece and how they connect as one.