This Maori Wakahuia Treasure Box has extensive pakati carving on the top.
The word Wakahuia ( pronounced wah-car-hoo-ee-ah) comes from the words “waka” meaning container or vessel and “huia” - huia bird ( now extinct). Huia feathers were traditionally worn as a hair adornment by Maori of high status. These feathers were considered “tapu” or sacred because of contact with the head of such individuals. Wooden boxes were elaborately hand-carved to hold and protect the feathers as well as other taonga ( treasures). The boxes and their contents were often given names, and were handed down through families. They were usually hung from rafters, for safe keeping.
This Wakahuia is beautifully carved with a Pakati pattern, and inlaid with New Zealand Paua ( abalone) shell. The Pakati pattern is a series of dog-tooth, triangular notches, also known as niho taniwha (taniwha teeth).
The timber used is Tulip wood, a sustainably harvested hard wood that is super strong but also lightweight.
Use to store your treasures, or give as a very special gift to someone you wish to honour.
The inside of the box is also hand-carved. Measurements are approximately 38cm x 14cm x 9cm (15" x 5 1/2" x 3 1/2").
Proudly made in New Zealand, and shipped worldwide.
Shipping Calculator
Add products to cart
Enter country, city, and postcode
Click calculate for the estimated rates for your cart
Your cart is empty! Add some items to calculate shipping.
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.
