Manaia inspired by Tupuarangi
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Hand-carved NZ Pounamu
Hassle-free returnsTupuārangi is the star connected to the harvesting of food that comes from the sky and above your head - such as birds and fruit. During the rising of Matariki, birds such as kererū (New Zealand pigeon) were harvested, cooked and preserved in their own fat. Akapita used the general form of a bird as inspiration for this design.
This piece is part of our Matariki Collection and will be on exhibit in our Rotorua studio until 3rd July 2022. You can reserve (pre-purchase) this limited-edition carving online, and it will be shipped to you as soon as the exhibition is finished. Included, is the original framed artwork, signed by Akapita Scally. The photo frame is (23cm h x 18cm w).
This piece was designed by Akapita Scally, and crafted from New Zealand pounamu.
Gift, with love
Every detail of our packaging is thoughtfully curated, from sustainable, low-ink, recyclable materials to personalised touches like mini-meaning cards and artist profiles. For an extra special touch, our Premium Gift Wrapping service means we wrap your piece in elegant kraft paper, tied with natural string and a woven jute ribbon.
Akapita Scally
The artist behind this creationFuelled by the love of seeing his ideas come to life in pounamu, Akapita Scally carefully considers design flow and significance when creating his signature pieces known for their meticulous finish and radiating beauty.
As a part of Rotorua’s carving industry for the past decade, Aka has had the privilege of working alongside some of the town’s finest pounamu artists. His designs are notable for their perfect lines and exemplary finishing, and he is particularly skilled at reflecting traditional forms whilst pushing contemporary boundaries.
Akapita is from Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue and Ngāti Rangitihi.What Manaia traditionally meant to Māori remains somewhat a mystery, but commonly it is considered that they are magical creatures and spiritual kaitiaki (guardians) of things worth protecting.
Manaia
Believed to be a messenger that moves freely between the spirit realm and the human world, the manaia is a mythological creature, greatly respected in Māori culture and a predominant motif in wood and greenstone carving. Māori culture is rich in pūrākau (legends), and within these legends, mythological, supernatural, and magical creatures are featured prominently, often acting as kaitiaki (guardians) of people or places worth protecting.Discover more
Manaia Necklaces
Why Choose Pounamu
If you're looking for a reason to buy something meaningful, and haven't quite made your mind up yet, here are some reasons to gift pounamu. From supporting local artists to the deep meaning associated with the stone, pounamu is a truly amazing gift to give.Our Promise
Hand carved
Smooth lines, soft finishes, no scratches and no cuts.
Sustainable packaging
Wherever possible we use sustainable packaging.
Gift wrapping
We offer a Premium Gift Wrapping service.
