Stylised Pounamu Whai (Stingray)

Quite a thick and heavy taonga.

120mm wide x 50mm high x 8mm thick

Plaited slip-knot cord

In some areas the Whai is seen as a kaitiaki (guardian), which protects the areas where shellfish are harvested. It was believed that if people followed the right tikanga, the stingray would ensure there were plenty of shellfish.

Please note that colour and inclusions may vary from piece to piece due to the nature of the stone.