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Hand-carved NZ Pounamu
Hassle-free returnsPlease note: There is a shipping delay on this item, during the exhibition period.
Pōhutukawa, a whetū of Matariki, is the star that calls us to remember those who have passed on. With this, we look to Te Waka o Rangi.
Te Waka o Rangi is the great celestial canoe that journeys across the night sky with Taramainuku as its rangatira. For eleven months of the year, Taramainuku casts his net, gathering the spirits of those who have passed. As the sun rises, the net is drawn in and the spirits are placed within Te Hao o Rua.
Nearing the end of the Māori year, Te Waka o Rangi descends beyond the horizon into the underworld. In a month's time, the waka returns and Taramainuku releases these spirits, placing them among the stars.
Laying at the base of the taurapa is the Kōtuku, a sacred bird believed to traverse the physical and spiritual realms, serving as a guide to accompany spirits on their journey back to Hawaiki.
This collection will be on display at Mānawa Bay from Tuesday 23 June to Sunday 19 July, before moving to our Rotorua store from 20–29 July. Pieces may be purchased throughout the exhibition period and will be delivered once the exhibitions have concluded.
The artist behind this creationFoua’s path to becoming a carver is a story of unexpected beginnings and cultural exploration. After high school, Foua was at a crossroads about his future and decided to explore his cultural roots and build strong foundations through a journey into carving. It was here he found his passion.
