Whakaaroaro - to ponder

Dear friend, Kia Ora

This contemporary Hei Toki is named Whakaaroaro, which means to ponder. It is made from Putiputi pounamu.

In general, the Hei Toki (adze) is a symbol of strength, courage, power, and authority. Traditionally they had two uses.

They were functional tools used for cutting down trees and used by Tohunga Whakairo (Master Carver) to create their elaborate carvings.

Secondly, they were bound to ornate wooden handles and used for ceremonial purposes. Only strong Chiefs with a lot of mana could wield the toki poutangata (ceremonial axe). Due to this connection with Māori chiefs, they are a symbol of great mana. Over time they have become more and more decorative, ornamental and elaborate. Therefore, expressing various layers of meaning.

When a great tree was felled for the purposes of making a special waka (canoe) or a carving for a meeting house (Whare Nui), the first chips of wood taken from the tree were given to the Tohunga (elder or priest) who took them to a special place where a karakia of thanks was recited.

Running down the centre of the toki is a pillar. This symbolises the connection between heaven and earth. The interconnectedness of life.