Tapatoru Koru – Pāua Earrings

Title: Tapatoru Koru

Artist:  Hinewaka Hokianga

Iwi:  Ngāti Porou, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahungunu   

Materials:  Pāua (NZ abalone), sterling silver

Description:  Pāua Earrings

Beautiful, striking Pāua fashioned with love – these Pāua earrings stand out as a statement piece of jewellery. Handcarved Pāua earrings with engraved Koru. Handcrafted with lots of aroha stemming from a lifelong relationship with Pāua, Tangaroa and Hinemoana (the ocean).  Each pair for sale in this collection varies in colour and tone, so no pair is identical to the image provided.

Artist Statement:

Hinewaka grew up in Porirua and has been living happily in Ōtaki in recent years with her partner who has whakapapa to Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Te Āti Awa.  Together they have found their joint passion for diving after being introduced to this ancestral pastime.  They spend every opportunity possible to go out for a dive gathering kaimoana for their whānau.  After generating a lot of shells over the years, Hinewaka decided that nothing must be wasted from the much loved Pāua, our national icon and treasure.  This is part of the story that belongs to her journey, discovering the beautiful taonga that are a deep part of her Māori identity and culture.  From the sea, to the table, to the puku and now the gallery where her Pāua earrings are available for everyone to enjoy. Watch her story as she grows exploring all the gifts and mysteries disguised by each iridescent Pāua shell.  

Length: Medium 60 X 20 mm