Elders have always held a special place in South Pacific cultures. They are respected and often revered for their experience and wisdom. They have often held the role of storyteller, passing valuable knowledge down through the generations. 

The Whale was thought to represent wisdom. Necklaces carved with a whale form were gifted and worn as a symbol of someone having knowledge and experience.

The Manaia - the messenger between the earthly world and the Gods represents spiritual awareness and was also worn by people thought to be wise.

The Toki, or adze, is worn as a symbol of strength and honour, and can reflect the experience and knowledge of the wearer.