Large Wahaika - Without Base

Large Wahaika

Both a practical and ceremonial weapon.

Many have a figure carved on the side, representing a guardian of the owner or a venerated ancestor.

This is a full size wahaika, measuring approximately 39cm (15 1/4") long.

Made in New Zealand from Tulip Wood, a sustainably harvested hardwood that is lightweight despite its toughness.

The name wahaika means "mouth of the fish". The weapon was traditionally made from either whale bone or wood.

Wahaika were traditionally carved on the butt, with a human face embellished with native paua shell eyes, and a small human figure carved above the handle, as in this example of the wahaika.