The New Zealand Maori Wakahuia is a Treasure or Feather Box. 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 Kauri Wakahuia is also beautifully carved and inlaid with New Zealand Paua ( abalone) shell. On the top is carved a Tiki figure, for good luck. The rest is carved in traditional Maori spirals, and beautiful carved feathers. Inside the box is also hand-carved. It closes with a neat hole and pin at each end.

I'm really pleased to be able to offer you a Wakahuia, as there are not many people carving them, due to all the work involved. They are truly beautiful in design and carving, and will be sure to please you in the years to come. A true treasure that you can also hand down.

The Wakahuia measures approximately 8" (20cm) long and 3 1/2" (9cm) high. I am able to get larger ones from this carver too ( up to about 14 1/2" long). Use it to store your own treasures in.