The manaia is typically depicted with, head of a bird and the tail of a fish and the body of a man. This piece combines a simple form of the manaia with a koru for the tail, brining together new beginnings and protection.
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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. From supporting local artists, to the deep meaning associated to the stone.
Every piece is one-of-a-kind
Our pieces are handcrafted with love
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What our customers are saying
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Beautiful
“Absolutely beautiful piece(s). Purchased two of the same design- different cut- for my sons and they fit them so well! Packaging was also gorgeous, and delivery was fast!!”
– Kellie C.
Verified Buyer
19 September 2022
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Hand carved
Smooth lines, soft finishes, no scratches and no cuts.
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Wherever possible we use sustainable packaging.
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The Manaia is a guardian and protector.
The Manaia is a messenger and spiritual kaitiaki (guardian) of the sky, earth and sea.A greatly respected mythological creature in Māori culture, it brings balance and protection to those you love most.
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.
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.
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Hand-carved NZ Pounamu
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