What do the designs mean?

The designs in Maori culture have a general meaning that is always closely associated with the use or ideology of the subject at hand.  For example, the 'Matau' or hook was used to catch fish, it is therefore generally associated with provision, abundance, water etc.  Whereas the 'Koru' is the frond of the fern and represents new life, strength, growth and peace. 

The meaning of the design takes on an entirely new meaning when a person is drawn to a particular piece.  The general meaning will then have significant and subjective meaning to the individual or the person to who the piece is being gifted.  A 'Matau' becomes a significant tohu (symbol) to a young man who has just joined the navy and is about to spend a significant amount of time on the sea, without contact with his family. Or a 'Koru' which has been gifted to a daughter who has just graduated from University and is about to begin their journey as a new business owner.

The following are general brief descriptions of the designs

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Manaia

The Manaia is a mythological creature in Māori culture. It is often depicted as a bird-headed human with the body of a fish or serpent. The Manaia is believed to be a messenger between the mortal world and the spirit world, hence why you only see half of the Manaia, the part that is present in the physical world.

The variations of the bird, man and fish/serpent are often seen as protections for travellers, covering travel in the air (bird) over the land (man) and over water or sea (fish/serpent)

Manaia designs vary slightly between iwi (tribes), but they are typically three-fingered. The three fingers represent the trinity of birth, life, and death. A fourth finger, representing the circular rhythms of the life cycle and the afterlife, is sometimes shown.

Koru

­­­­­­­­­­­­The koru is a spiral shape based on the appearance of a new
unfurling silver fern frond. It is an integral symbol in Māori art, carving and
tattooing, where it symbolises new life, growth, strength and peace. Its shape
"conveys the idea of perpetual movement," while the inner coil
"suggests returning to the point of origin".

Roimata / Drop

The roimata drop, shaped like a teardrop, represents healing, comfort, and strength. It is often worn to bring peace, especially during times of loss or change.

This simple form carries deep meaning—reminding the wearer of resilience, connection, and the support of those who came before.

Heart

The heart represents love, unity, and deep connection. In Māori meaning, it reflects the strength of whānau and the bonds that tie people together.

Worn close to the chest, it serves as a reminder of care, compassion, and the importance of holding loved ones in your heart.

Hook

The hook, or hei matau, represents strength, prosperity, and safe journeys across water. It is closely connected to the ocean and the importance of fishing and travel in Māori life.

Worn as a symbol of protection and good fortune, it also reflects a strong connection to nature and the guidance of ancestors.

Pikorua

The pikorua, or twist, represents the path of life and the strong bond between people. Its intertwining shape reflects connection, friendship, and love that endures over time.

Though the paths may twist and turn, they always come back together—symbolising unity, loyalty, and an unbreakable connection.

Toki

The toki, shaped like an adze, represents strength, courage, and leadership. Traditionally a tool and weapon, it symbolizes determination and the ability to overcome challenges.

Worn today, the toki reminds the wearer of their inner power, resilience, and the guidance of their ancestors.

Wheku

The wheku represents ancestry, guidance, and protection. Traditionally carved to honor elders, it carries the wisdom and strength of those who came before.

Worn close, the wheku connects the wearer to their roots, reminding them of family, heritage, and the guidance of their ancestors.