RAKAIA

The RAKAIA is a large, hand-carved salmon matau (hook) pendant by artist Kerry Thompson, made from New Zealand pounamu. Its sculpted form captures the salmon’s power and motion - flowing, muscular, and graceful. The design is bold and balanced, with a smooth, sweeping shape that feels strong and looks elegant.

The salmon is a symbol of tenacity and resolve. Born in freshwater, it travels vast distances against strong currents, navigating by instinct to return to its spawning grounds. For the wearer, this pendant can represent persistence through hard times, staying true to one’s own path, or honouring any significant journey back to a place, a person, or a deeper sense of self.

We named it after the Rakaia River, one of the South Island’s great braided rivers and New Zealand’s most famous salmon river. With its wide, shifting gravel channels and powerful flows, the Rakaia is a fitting namesake - wild, beautiful, and central to the salmon’s story in this country.

Kerry’s skill shows in the flawless finish. The stone has a unique two-tone colouring in soft mossy greens and is polished to a silky, tactile smoothness. This careful craftsmanship, combined with the rare jade and the expressive carving, makes the RAKAIA a distinctive piece - one that connects the wearer to both the artistry of pounamu and the enduring spirit of the river and of fish it honours.

A little about this design...

The Hook: The wearer of a Hei-Matau is seen as a provider and protector who is strong willed and determined to succeed in life - what a lovely sentiment to gift to someone important to you.

RAKAIA is provided with a hand-plaited, adjustable cord. Position it where it suits you best!

Take a look at the video and you will appreciate the artistry of this beautiful piece.

Also included, our 'Kia ora' card, which explains the meaning behind the hook design.

DELIVERY WITH EXPRESS COURIER IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE.

Meaning:  Prosperity ~ Abundance ~ Protection

Artist: Kerry Thompson

Material: New Zealand Jade, Pounamu

Finish: Matte

Cord Colour: Thick Manuka Green/Pacific Blue Cord with Pacific Blue Popper and Manuka Green Slipknots

Cord Length: Adjustable

Size: 99mm (3.9") long, 50mm (1.9") wide