Oranga o roto - Inner life series

Dear friend, Kia Ora

It is in recognition of mana and honour to be gifted a carving. This taonga is part of the Oranga o roto - Inner Life series. Each carving in this limited-edition series has been handcrafted with love. The subtle differences within each piece of bone makes these unique and individualised.

This is a contemporary carving with flavourings of traditional Māori influences. It depicts the nature life we each possess. Hence the name Te oranga o roto. It can be interpreted in many ways. The overall design is based on the shape of the Tomairaki (Tōmairangi), which is reminiscent of a dew drop.

“Ka patapata iho taku whakaakoranga āno he ua, ka maturuturu iho taku kupu ano he tomairangi (tomairaki), me te ua punehunehu ki runga i te tipu hou.

This is interpreted to “My teaching drops like rain, my words trickle forth like dew and the misty rain on new shoots.”

This poem was gifted to me by the late Kaumātua and Tohonga Rev’d Maurice Manawaroa Gray MNZM, LTh,JP. It is an expression of wisdom.

The Koru pattern on the front represents new beginnings and pathways that lead to great happiness. The surrounding kōwhaiwhai pattern depicts the currents of life. Sometimes turbulent, other times flowing gently.

The hole in the middle symbolises being able to ‘see through and beyond’ the immediate challenges we face in life. To acquire a broader vision. At another level it represents a spiritual void that must be filled to be complete or made whole. As this hole is generally positioned over the heart area, this symbolises that the indwelling of the Tapu Wairua, the spirit of truth, must be the one to guide our heart.