Dear friend, Kia Ora
This taonga has been named Pikinga which means ascent, climbing on.
The main basis of this carving is the form of a 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. In this instance, the manaia is being encased within their wings. This represents protection.
Each wing contains a koru. 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. The tail also contains three korus at the bottom of the carving. Together, they signify wholeness. The integration of body, mind and spirit.
We can trace from this back up the tail to the arm which is holding onto its body. As such, this provides balance and stability which enables us to traverse the journey of life with the strength needed to overcome the inevitable trials of life.
The kowhaiwhai pattern that runs up and down the body signifies that the most important part of the journey of life is within our spiritual being. It is a connection to the lush forests of Aotearoa. The theme of the life pervading koru unfolding upon the body of the carving continues upon the back.
On the back of the manaia are two inlays of pāua. They represent the balance of enjoying today verses preparing for tomorrow.
Dear friend, Kia Ora
This taonga has been named Pikinga which means ascent, climbing on.
The main basis of this carving is the form of a 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. In this instance, the manaia is being encased within their wings. This represents protection.
Each wing contains a koru. 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. The tail also contains three korus at the bottom of the carving. Together, they signify wholeness. The integration of body, mind and spirit.
We can trace from this back up the tail to the arm which is holding onto its body. As such, this provides balance and stability which enables us to traverse the journey of life with the strength needed to overcome the inevitable trials of life.
The kowhaiwhai pattern that runs up and down the body signifies that the most important part of the journey of life is within our spiritual being. It is a connection to the lush forests of Aotearoa. The theme of the life pervading koru unfolding upon the body of the carving continues upon the back.
On the back of the manaia are two inlays of pāua. They represent the balance of enjoying today verses preparing for tomorrow.
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