This medium size 410mm (16") long Maori War Canoe (Waka Taua) really shows off the skills of its Māori designer.
The waka is a beautiful ornament, a stunning souvenir of New Zealand, and a unique trophy.
The waka has a macrocarpa hull with carving along the upper side. The prow and stern (tauihu and taurapa) are beautifully embellished with intricate native paua shell inlay.
The tauihu of a waka taua was traditionally carved as a figurehead to represent a spiritual guardian or god, helping to part the waters and keep the crew safe. The beautifully carved taurapa acted as a counterweight, and a symbol of the tribe's mana (prestige).
The waka is incredibly finely detailed, and made in Rotorua, New Zealand.
It comes to you in a sturdy mailing tube. Inside, the canoe is in 3 parts - the body of the canoe, the taurapa, and the base. They join together super easily - just make sure you give the taurapa a wee push into its slot. On the outside of the mailing tube is more information from the Māori designer about the history of the waka taua.
The base can have a gold or black engravable plaque attached, to turn this beautiful ornament into a trophy.
Should you wish to go ahead with engraving, plus select the option you want, and then in the box that will pop up, enter up to 7 words you would like engraved. Engraving takes 2-3 days. Please note that engraved items cannot be returned, except for the unlikely event of us getting the engraving wrong.
Proudly made in New Zealand, and shipped worldwide.
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Average Shipping Times
Australia
up to a week
USA/Canada
up to 2 weeks
UK/ASIA
up to 10 days
Europe
up to 2 weeks
Rest of World
variable (chat with us)
NZ
1-4 business days
Shipping Support & Guarantee
While lost parcels are rare, we’ve got your back if it happens. If your order goes missing, we will work directly with our shipping partners to track it down.
International postal investigations can take a little time, but if your parcel is officially lost, we will immediately ship a replacement or provide a full refund. Rest assured, we'll see you right.
