Maori Bone Carvings

Not only did the authentic inhabitants of New Zealand give this country its name; Aotera, which means the country of the long white cloud. They also brought a rich cultural heritage still characteristic to New Zealand to the country and its culture. This heritage, by foreigners mostly recognized by the traditional Maori facial tattoo's (Moko), the carvings has much more to offer.

One of the mere pronounced type of expressions are the bone and wood carvings. These carvings were used as tools, such as axes, woodworking tools (adze) war hammers, spear points, and knifes. Gradually the ornamental purpose got a more prominent role. Specially crafted items were used during ceremonies and were highly valued treasures (Taonga) that would be passed on from father on son during ages.

Some of these beautiful and unique works of art are still to be enjoyed in Kiwi musea. The most common known Maori bone carvings symbols are the Koru, Matau, and Tiki. Koru refers to the unfurling ferns, a symbol of regrowth and new life. The Matau refers to a fish hook, a source of food and wealth for a family or community. Tiki is the resemblance of the first man on earth created by the god Thane.