Huhuatanga - Abundance, goodness, excellence

Dear friend, Kia Ora

This taonga has been named Huhuatanga which means Abundance, goodness, excellence.

The basis of this carving is the form of a simple manaia. The manaia, (or messenger), is the profile of a Tiki. This is symbolic of being half in this world and half in the spirit world. Manaia can be adapted with other symbols and stylized to communicate different meanings.

A koru is located at the bottom of the carving. This signifies a continual unfolding of our life at its base level. This unfolding continues beyond our control. However, the top half of the carving presents a kowhaiwhai pattern that contains a three koru on each side. This represents the parts of life that are within our physical, mental and spiritual decision-making control.

The pattern upon the head symbolises the wisdom that provides balance and stability. This enables us to traverse the journey of life with the strength needed to overcome the inevitable trials of life.

The koru symbol is common in New Zealand and is inspired by the unfurling of the new fern fronds. Meanings associated with this are new growth, new beginnings and awakening. It is a connection to the lush forests of Aotearoa.