Hei-Matau:
View the Maori Carving Gallery Here
These very stylised fish hooks represent strength, prosperity,abundance, fertility and a great respect for the sea.
Hei Matau are also said to provide good luck and safety when traveling over water so are often worn by travelers.
Hei Matau are also symbols of power and authority which are held in great reverence by the Maori people.
They were used as a practical tool for fishing and were often decorated as a sign of respect for the creatures of the sea.
There are many styles of Hei Matau from the true hook designs to the more ornamental styles which became treasured heirlooms for generations following.
NZ Pacific have a wide selection of hei matau carving pendants and necklaces hand carved by New Zealand artists in bone, greenstone, jade and mother of pearl (pacific pearl).
All Maori carvings are sent in a traditional flax basket with an information sheet about your particular chosen design.
View the Hei-Matau Gallery Here
