Manaia - Turou Hawaiki - Blessings upon you

Dear friend, Kia Ora

This Manaia is called Turou Hawaiki meaning blessings upon you. The Manaia represents the spiritual essence or maui of a place, thing, or person. Sometimes understood in terms of guardianship, however this can be slightly miss-leading as true guardianship comes from seeking the truth of the living Atua and creator of all. Sometimes this journey of truth can be expressed through the form and symbolism of the Manaia.

The eye is an inlay of pāua. This is symbolic of being able to view the colours of life and what is most precious to us. The eye on the front is flat which symbolises seeing in the ordinary sense, however the eye on the back is curved, giving it depth and dimension. This represents obtaining the gift of spiritual discernment.

A river of kowhaiwhai patterns flow up and down the neck of the Manaia. This represents the seeking of wisdom. Through wisdom we can ascertain what are correct actions that are conducive to our eternal wellbeing. The koru symbols also represent growth, new beginnings and awakening.

This Manaia holds the aspect of a Warrior. Within the tail is a weapon which is seen as supporting itself. This is the blade of wisdom that cuts though our internal negativities. Thereby causing us to overcome our personal obstacles.

A wave pattern located at the bottom of the carving which represents the ocean. It is symbolic of ‘navigating’ our live through the vast ocean of life. By basing our ultimate happiness on something deeper, we are less prone to being blown around by the waves of life and are like a stable and powerful fish who remains unaffected by the wind and waves on top of the water.

The power to benefit others is symbolised by the ‘arm’ which possesses a staff. This ‘staff’ represents that we need to use wisdom in practical ways. Through this we are reminded that we therefore ultimately need love. For without love, wisdom is useless.