Taiaha wood A taiaha (Māori pronunciation: [ˈtaiaha]) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand. 8 metres long. The upoko is adorned with a Discover the beauty of Taiaha, traditional Māori weapons crafted with precision and artistry. Explore the power and tradition of the Taiaha weapon with our unique collection, featuring exceptional Taiaha For Sale. Discover the perfect keepsake to mark this special occasion. Experts in sourcing and logging native timber throughout New Zealand, then milling, drying and profiling for flooring, decking, weatherboards, landscaping, carving and joinery. Finishing the Arero (tongue) and other finishing touches on my Maori Taiaha. Wood, pāua shell, 63 1/4 x 3 1/4 x 1 1/4 in. Discover these remarkable Taiaha creations, strength and heritage. Contemporary gifts and artefacts. It is usually made from wood, though sometimes it is made from whale bone. EARLY TO MID 20TH CENTURY CARVED WOOD SCULPTURE OF MAORI WARRIOR WITH TAIAHA (SPEAR) AND HERU (HAIR ADORNMENT). Beautiful taiaha with carved tongue and koru design on the blade. Directly to your inbox. May 21, 2025 · Polynesian weapons: sacred warrior tools of jade, shark teeth & wood. An arero (tongue) protruding from the upoko forms one end of the weapon. Explore the intricate process of cleaning and carving the Taiaha, a symbol of Māori culture. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , CUR. Option to have the base/stand engraved This would make a perfect award or first Birthday Gift, Perfect size for our Tamariki, or even as a gift for that special occasion birthday. A taiaha is a hand weapon usually made from hard wood, or sometimes whale bone, and usually about 1. Discover the perfect 21st Keys to mark this significant milestone. Dated XIXth century, it originates from New Zealand, and belongs to the Māori culture. Staff (Taiaha), Wood, 69 5/16 x 2 3/16 x 1 3/8 in. Full-size taiaha are highly valued globally, particularly by collectors, members of Maori cultural groups overseas, and as meaningful gifts for occasions such as 21st birthdays. Oct 25, 2023 · THE taiaha, the most shapely and effective wooden weapon of the Maori, is a kind of two-handed sword, with the added advantage that both ends can be used, the tongue-shaped point as well as the broad blade. The purpose of the collar was both to add to the beauty of the weapon and to distract the wielder's opponent during battle. early to mid 20th century CE. The real deal made out of Aotearoa/New Zealand indigenous wood, usually black Maire. 5cmW x 44cmL Made from quality Mahogany solid wood with Paua shell eyes and adorned with gorgeous pheasant feathers. Beautiful traditional Māori artefact. T he Key will be custom made and personalised to the Recipient, whakapapa (genealogy) etc. 2 mins Related searches taiaha wood types traditional maori taiaha making Carved New Zealand taiaha weapon for presentationTaiaha (no stand) Carved in New Zealand from New Zealand hardwood (Tulip Wood) 143cm x 7 cm x 7cm Stock photo. This item is in the category “Collectables\Cultural, Religious\Pacific”. A taiaha (Māori pronunciation: [ˈtaiaha]) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with efficient footwork on the part of the wielder. Each Maori Taiaha is more than a weapon; it's a symbol of history, artistry, and tradition. Unlike the quarterstaff and… The use of traditional Māori weaponry declined after Europeans arrived in New Zealand. Caption Maori. Wood, pāua shell, 80 5/16 x 2 5/8 in. PAUA SHELLS ALSO ADORN THE BASE OF THE CARVING. Dec 31, 2023 · A taiaha ([ˈtaiaha]) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with quick footwork on the part of the wielder. Each Taiaha is a symbol of Maori culture, embodying artistry and heritage. Taiaha have one end carved in the shape of an upoko (head) with a face on each side. The locally trained carvers, using traditional techniques, work alongside other expert woodworkers with different technical skills. The mount will compliment the set, (patterning etc). jpg) Explore the artistry of our Keys For 21st Birthday, where tradition meets craftsmanship in our unique Wood Carvings. The Ngati-Maniapoto people have a story of a renowned giant warrior, Kiharoa, whose pa was one of the Three Sisters Aug 30, 2018 · The item “Maori Warrior Taiaha Heru Carved Wood Sculpture Early 20thC Signed Vintage NZ” is in sale since Thursday, July 12, 2018. Most of the time, a Māori warrior would take two weapons into battle, a short, striking one and a long weapon, which allowed him to stand further away from his enemy. Deadly art blending combat, status & spiritual power. Comes with sturdy tube. What wood is taiaha made from? New Zealand wooden carved 21st Taiaha on base with feathers and paua inlay. Discover these remarkable pieces and own a part of history with a Taiaha that represents strength and tradition. Wood grain may vary. A Taiaha (Māori pronunciation: [ˈtaiaha]) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand. The Taiaha is hand carved and can be used for performances, ceremonial, private collection, private or corporate gift . The taiaha is a long handled weapon used for striking and parrying in close quarter combat. Learn the Taiaha meaning and discover unique Patu designs. 2 cm). The Long-handled weapons Taiaha (fighting staff) One of the most well-known Māori weapons is the taiaha. Usually between 5 to 6 feet in length, it is a wooden close quarters weapon used for short sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts. Framed Māori carvings, wakahuia, pikorua, manaia, taiaha, cultural trophies, wahaika There is a large variety of Traditional New Zealand Maori weapons. Discover these unique Maori Weapons and embrace the cultural richness of Aotearoa. A taiaha is a traditional weapon of the Maori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with efficient footwork on the part of the wielder. 5cm long and widest part is 4. Taiaha Taiaha is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand. It is a wooden, or sometimes whale bone, close quarters, staff weapon used for short sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with quick footwork on the part of the wielder. They can be divided into two general categories – long two-handed weapons and short single-handed weapons. 7 x 8. Made with skill and cultural significance, these wooden masterpieces bring the spirit of Maori culture into your space. 7 cm). Celebrate the rich cultural heritage with finely detailed Taiaha pieces, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike. 5 to 1. It is a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp Find the worth of your New Zealand Maori artefacts taiaha (fighting stick) kakauroa (staff). Made from Hawaiian Curly Koa wood, white pearl and lashed with feathers. A taiaha MAORI FIGHTING STAFF (taiaha) made of Wood measures 109 cm (42. A taiaha is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand. This Taiaha is a beautifully hand carved replica Maori weapon, made from the native Tawa tree of New Zealand. The use of hardwood such as maire suggests a deliberate choice for durability and effectiveness in close combat. Types of weapons Māori weapons were made of wood, stone and bone. Dimensions are 78cm x 12cm x 10cm. Since the 1980s, as part of the Māori cultural renaissance, there has been renewed interest in traditional weapons – although a narrower range than were once in use. Each piece embodies craftsmanship, heritage, and the celebration of a milestone. 5 metres long. NZ Native Timber Supplies is based in Reikorangi, Kapiti Coast, Wellington. 0 x 6. Full-size taiaha are highly valued globally, particularly by collectors, members of Maori cultural groups overseas, and as meanin Long-handled fighting staff (Taiaha) Well known Maori weapon made from either wood or whale bone. It has three main parts; the arero (tongue), used for stabbing the opponent and parrying; the . Free or royalty-free photos and images. It has three main parts; the arero (tongue), used for Explore the artistry of Taiaha with our Wood Carving collection, featuring exquisite Taiaha Designs available for sale. Maori taiaha, made from matai, a native NZ wood. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. 3 x 3. This Taiaha With NZ Greenstone Blade piece has Pāua inlay set in the eyes and feathers decorate just below the head. Focusing on the Upoko (head) of the battle staff. 5 cm). Bid on 20th C. Maori carvings, including mere, patu, kotiate, wahaika, taiaha, tewhatewha, wakahuia, taiaha, musical instruments like koauau and putatara, tiki, and trophies. Maori Wood Taiaha w/ Feathers, Paua Inlay sold at auction by Artemis Fine Arts 138c on 24th January Oceania, New Zealand, Maori culture, ca. More than a weapon, the Taiaha is a symbol of rangatiratanga (leadership) and mātauranga (knowledge), traditionally wielded by those trained in the art of mau rākau (Māori weaponry). Woodward, 03. 5 and 1. Crafted primarily from New Zealand Kauri timber, the taiaha is a double-ended weapon used in close hand-to-hand combat, striking, and stabbing. Description Over the last 40 years, Wood Masters has grown to represent New Zealand's unique cultural heritage by successfully combining Whakairo (The Art of Maori carving) with fine European craftsmanship. 98") deep. -WikipediaAbout Maori Taiaha:"A taiaha is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand. Discover the rich artistry of Maori wood carvings, handcrafted in NZ. Dreamstime is the world`s largest stock photography community. Part 2/3 making a Maori Taiaha out of Hawaiian Koa wood. Mini Taiaha Carving on StandSize (cm) : 6. This beautiful taiaha is adorned with a collar of kākā feathers and hair from a kurī (Polynesian dog). Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, CUR. Club (Taiaha). Explore our collection now and embrace the beauty and craftsmanship of Maori wood carvings. Download scientific diagram | Taiaha (long fighting staff ), Te Porohanga (assumed), New Zealand, 1800s, wood, red sealing wax, kököwai (red ochre), cordage, 1720 × 61 × 25 mm. Shop this wooden taiaha with Māori designs carved on the head. This wooden fighting staff was one of their most well known instruments of war, often mistakenly described as a spear due to its appearance, it A Taiaha (pronounced as IPA2|taiaha) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand. A gorgeous example of a carved wooden taiaha, a weapon for close combat, with ornate motifs on its lower end that resemble eyes; A Taiaha is a traditional Māori weapon. Each piece embodies tradition, craftsmanship, and the heritage of Aotearoa. jpg) Dec 11, 2023 · Customised Taiaha (Staff) carved from Kwila wood. Has Pāua 21 on the blade. This weapon was a “ weapon of authority,“ which was used by chiefs in both attacks and defence. Apr 15, 2025 · Physical Description of the Taiaha in Historical Texts Historical accounts consistently describe the Taiaha as a long, staff-like weapon, typically fashioned from the strong, resilient wood of the maire tree, although instances of its creation from whalebone are also noted. Usually made from hardwood. Perfect 21st or corporate gifts. Some ornate examples were also used as a sign of rank, while the purely fighting examples could be executed in a more simple manner. The Hei Taiaha symbolises the Māori warrior culture. Download Taiaha stock photos. Explore the artistry and tradition of our 21st Taiaha On A Stand, a unique fusion of Maori Wood Carvings and the significance of 21st Keys. It is a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with quick footwork on the part of the wielder. … Maori warfare was almost always hand-to-hand combat, and it was a major activity for the Maori. 2794. A Taiaha is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone 153cm x 7cm x 7cm Carved in New Zealand from native Kauri. 2795. The Taiaha also serves as Explore the exquisite artistry of Taiaha in our collection, featuring exceptional Taiaha Designs available for sale. 36") wide, and 2. Maori taiaha with greenstone tongue Māori taiaha fighting staff (not a spear) made from tulip wood. A Taiaha is a traditional Māori weapon. Each Taiaha is a testament to Maori culture and heritage, combining the tradition of Wood Carvings with the craftsmanship of the Taiaha weapon. These staffs were usually 1–2 metres in length and were commonly made of hard wood such as maire, rātā or kānuka. Staff (Taiaha). 2795_detail. Explore our unique collection of Tiki, Koru, and Taiaha necklaces and pendants. (176. Worldwide shipping. The rau is the end of the taiaha and is 6cm wide, 143cm in length Made in NZ from sustainably harvested tulip wood, a hardwood but very light. A taiaha was elaborately carved, often ornamented with red kākā feathers and waero (dog hair). They have three main parts: the arero (tongue), used for New Zealand Maori Taiaha Spear | This Taiaha, hand-carved from rich wood and adorned with intricate traditional engravings and iridescent paua shell eyes, measures 38cm (14. Carved in New Zealand from native Kauri. A Explore the power and tradition of the Taiaha weapon with our Full Length Taiaha collection, available for sale. Discover these unique Taiaha creations that pay homage to Maori culture and history. Since the 1980s, as part of the Māori cultural renaissance, there has been renewed interest in traditional weapons – although a Hei Taiaha A Taiaha is a traditional Māori weapon. Sep 12, 2025 · A vintage HAND CRAFTEDTEKOTEKO Wood SCULPTURE which depicts a of a Maori Tribal Warrior, holding his Taiaha (spear) measuring 4 inches tall. Some taiaha retain a tauri or collar of feathers, adorned with awe or tufts of dog hair. Carved from either wood or whalebone, these Wats a good oil or stain to finish off a taiaha, totara Finishing a taiaha with totara wood, discussing various oil and stain options Maori. 8 m) in length. Discover handcrafted Maori bone carvings at Tuwharetoa Bone. Language: Maori / Taranaki Origin: In common use Description The taiaha is a slender, two-handed club with a double-edged blade and a spear-like head at the back. The Greenstone Blade is 10. Wood, 69 5/16 x 2 3/16 x 1 3/8 in. Carved from either wood or whalebone, these weapons represent treasured items. THE WARRIORS FACE IS EXPERTLY CARVED TO REPRESENT FACIAL TATTOOS AND THE EYES ARE PAUA SHELLS. It is mistaken as a spear for its spear for its shape, it has a pointed at around the sizes Dec 13, 2020 · What wood is a taiaha made out of? The best-known two-handed weapons are the taiaha, tewhatewha and pouwhenua. Tulip wood is hard, durable and insect-resistant hardwood. Category Wood Carvings Description Over the last 40 years, Wood Masters has grown to represent New Zealand's unique cultural heritage by successfully combining Whakairo (The Art of Maori carving) with fine European craftsmanship. 5cm which is Tangiwai NZ Pounamu. Weapons such as taiaha (fighting staffs) were replaced by muskets, and para whakawai (weaponry training schools) vanished. Beautiful selection of Māori gifts and Māori artefacts: wakahuia (treasure box, feather box) wooden mere, wooden wahaika, kōauau (Māori flute), taiaha (fighting staff), wahaika, toki-pou-tangata and more. Great wooden carvings for 21st key. This is a full-size Taiaha, measuring approximately 160cm in length. 9 in). Maori artefacts - Taiaha, Mere pounamu, patu, waka, wakahuia, wahaika, tewhatewha, kotiate, and more. Beautiful traditional Māori artifact. Taiaha – Te Kahakaharoa Description Expertly hand-carved from native hardwood, our Taiaha embodies the strength, discipline, and wisdom of the warrior. Thus, Rūrūtangiākau created Akerautangi, the father of Taiaha. [1] Taiaha are usually between 5 to 6 feet (1. Explore unique Taiaha designs and authentic wooden carvings made in New Zealand. The taiaha consists of three parts; the upoko (head) which also includes the well carved arero (protruding tongue), the tinana (body), which forms the grip, and the rau or main striking blade. 5cm (0. Mau rākau – Māori use of weaponry by Rangi Matamua The use of traditional Māori weaponry declined after Europeans arrived in New Zealand. Please allow extra time for up to 3 days for Engraving A Fine 19th Century New Zealand Maori Quarterstaff, ‘Taiaha’ Ex English Private Collection A formidable weapon in the hands of the Maori warriors of New Zealand, (‘Aotearoa’), the ‘Taiaha’, was used in close quarter, hand to hand combat. Carved from either wood or whalebone, these weapons represent treasured item. Taiaha Māori weapon Māori spear The Taiaha (pronounced Tie-uh-ha) is a revered Maori weapon known for its intricate design and historical significance. Each piece is more than a weapon; it's a symbol of Maori culture, tradition, and history, intricately crafted through Wood Carvings. This article with lots of images helps collectors understand 21st Taiaha On A Stand for sale, the Arero the tongue has been fully carved on both sides with pāua eyes in the Upoko (head). Due to its shape, it is sometimes mistakenly referred to as a spear. The highly prestigious taiaha kura is further distinguished by the addition of the decorative tauri (parrot A taiaha is a hand weapon usually made from hard wood, or sometimes whale bone, and usually about 1. Long two-handed weapons The best-known two-handed weapons are the taiaha, tewhatewha and pouwhenua. THE 38CM LONG REMOVABLE SPEAR… Read more → Posted in maori taiaha Wood, paua shell length 83 1/2in (211cm) Finely carved, probably by stone, one end carved in the shape of a head ( upoko ) with a face on each side, one eye inlaid with iridescent paua shell, a tongue ( arero ), with double spirals, double parallel grooves and dog tooth pattern notches, protrudes from the mouth and forms the front blade, the body ( tinana ) provides the grip with a flat Discover the unique beauty of Taiaha with Greenstone Blade, a blend of Maori Carvings and the elegance of Wooden Carvings in NZ. 324. Includes taiaha suitable for mau rakau, and beautiful full size mere. Crafted from Greenstone & Wood, this fighting staff showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the Maori people. Each piece is more than a symbol; it's an embodiment of Maori culture, tradition, and artistry. Explore the rich heritage and tradition of Taiaha, including Taiaha For Sale showcasing the essence of Maori culture. 40" Taiaha with Jade spear tip - Wood hand carved Maori Weapon - New ZealandThe taiaha was widely used during warfare by the Maori. The upoko (head) and arero (tongue) of the Taiaha was designed using a Raperape pattern which is a traditional pattern used to depict movement also commonly seen in Tā Moko (Traditional Māori Tattooing). Never thrown, this club was held and wielded from the head or pointedend. Discover these unique pieces that symbolize strength. Toi whakairo or just whakairo (carving) is a Māori traditional art of carving in wood, stone or bone. 5 x 3. 03. It had a long strong body to block parry and attack, four faces to see in all directions, a Maori Warrior Taiaha Heru Carved Wood Sculpture Early 20thC Signed Vintage NZ. (204. A Maori hard wood staff or walking stick with Tiki design on the handle and body finely carved all over with geometric patterns Period Late 19th early 20th century Explore the intricate art of Maori culture with this beautifully carved Taiaha. The Taiaha is authentic and can be used for performances, ceremonial, private collection, private or corporate gift . Shop traditional Maori craftsmanship today. Taiaha are usually between 5 to 6 feet (1. Discover the spiritual essence of Aotearoa through our collection of authentic Māori gifts and treasures. Discover tips and techniques for wood carving. Free shipping within NZ. Maker unknown A taiaha is a hand weapon usually made from hard wood, or sometimes whale bone, and usually about 1. Brooklyn Museum, Bequest of Samuel E. #whakairo #maoriwoodcarving #taiaha Māori artefacts by our talented carvers from Woodmasters. The staff has a pointed end, and is usually between 1. Each piece is more than a key; it's a symbol of heritage, celebration, and the transition to adulthood. The eyes of the two faces see all around, reflecting the alertness of the taiaha exponent. The Ate (liver) is the flattened wooden end which was used for striking has been carved as well. Explore these remarkable creations and adorn yourself with cultural richness. 96") long, 6cm (2. The seller is “transcentury” and is located in Glen Waverley. Brooklyn Museum, Purchased with funds given by A. 0 x 5. Shipped worldwide. Please note these are all made to order, so will each differ slightly and can take up to 2-3 weeks to be shipped. It is a short fighting staff weapon made for close-quarters combat. The artwork showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands, specifically highlighting the craftsmanship and artistic style of New Zealand. About Taiaha: Beyond its role in warfare, the Taiaha holds cultural and spiritual significance. Consisting of the rau, or striking blade, a shaft of oval cross-section, and an upoko or head with arero or tongue extending out from the mouth in the Māori gesture of defiance. Māori taiaha Māori taiaha fighting staff made from tulip wood. The taiaha is one of the most iconic of all the Māori weapons and it was born when Tū, the god of war sought out Rūrūtangiākau, the weapon maker of the gods, and asked her to fashion a weapon that is unmatched by any other. The Maori ShopPromotions, new products and sales. Jun 14, 2012 · The taiaha consists of the tinana (body), an upoko (head) and an arero (tongue) which comes out of the head. Double-handed weapon. 24376_detail02. It is a highly coveted award, and the prize is, fittingly, a taiaha. A tall man with a good long reach was a most formidable taiaha-wielder. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum) A taiaha (pronounced as /mi/) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with efficient footwork on the part of the wielder. Long-handled weapons Taiaha (fighting staff) One of the most well-known Māori weapons is the taiaha. Fabulous as 21st gifts, corporate or business gifts, or to add to your collection. Its the real deal made out of Aotearoa/New Zealand indigenous wood, usually Black Maire. Local high school student Josh Yates is named taiaha toa: the standout student of the wānanga. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 03. [1] This full-length Maori carved Taiaha serves as an ideal gift or trophy and is also suitable for use in mau rakau. (160. Free shipping. This taiaha will make a striking statement piece when mounted on the wall. It is used in traditional Maori ceremonies and rituals, symbolizing strength and protection. The Maori Taiaha (pronounced Tie-uh-ha) is a pre-European hand-to-hand combat weapon. It is a close-quarters staff weapon made from wood or bone and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with quick footwork on the part of the wielder. Please add the name you are wanting to have engraved i The item “Maori Warrior Taiaha Heru Carved Wood Sculpture Early 20thC Signed Vintage NZ” is in sale since Thursday, July 12, 2018. Research our price guide with auction results on 108 items from $36 to $33,130. A Taiaha is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone Approximately 145cm. The Hei Taiaha symbolizes the Māori warrior culture. 2794_bw. Augustus Healy, Carll de Silver and Robert B. Taiaha are usually between 5 to 6 feet (1. Made in New Zealand. Concern for the environment and Jul 7, 2022 · The taiaha is another weapon used by the pre-European Maori, and it is the equivalent of the quarter staff. It is a light-colored hardwood used for wood carving. jpg) We’ll honour two dedicated students who will be promoted to tutors, not just for their taiaha skills, but strength of character and dedication to their communities. Haslett, 24376. Nov 8, 2022 · A taiaha (Māori pronunciation: [ˈtaiaha]) is a traditional weapon of the Māori of New Zealand; a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with efficient footwork on the part of the wielder. It is made from a hard wood from a tree locally known as eroa, and polished to a glossy finish. It is a close-quarters staff weapon made from either wood or whalebone, and used for short, sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts with efficient footwork on the part of the wielder. Nov 1, 2023 · Explore authentic Maori weapons, including Taiaha and Patu. This item can be shipped worldwide. Maori. The taiaha features intricate carvings on both the head and the shaft’s end. vhnyou cipknpj dgrj ptujzu svnmoua oeaj xoov oxir lmvx abzqvk yiz gwfezz lpldf ufjl egkqb