This adorable Tribe, the collective noun for Kiwi, come as a beautiful set. Comprising a 40mm 'papa' kiwi, a 35mm 'whaea' (mother) kiwi and two 20mm 'tamariki' (children) kiwi. Crafted from genuine West Coast Kawakawa Pounamu.
Kiwi are a significant national icon, equally cherished by all cultures in New Zealand. Kiwi are a symbol for the uniqueness of New Zealand wildlife and the value of our natural heritage.
The bird itself is a taonga (treasure) to Maori, who have strong cultural, spiritual and historic associations with kiwi. Its feathers are valued in weaving kahukiwi (kiwi feather cloak) for people of high rank.
Due to the cultural significance to Maori and the traditional knowledge about the bird, tangata whenua are a key stakeholder in kiwi management. For a number of local iwi and hapu throughout New Zealand, this relationship between tangata whenua and kiwi has been formally recognised as part of their Treaty of Waitangi settlement claims, which encompass specific references to species recovery work. This includes the Ngai Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998.
Kawakawa- is the most common variety of Pounamu. it comes in many shades - from strong, rich green to dark green - and often has small dark flecks, which add to its character. Named after the leaf of the Kawakawa. It is the main type used in gem purposes.
Hand carved by Deane Moreton
This is an example of the carvings you will receive. You will not receive these exact pieces, but ones that are very similar. This is due to each Kiwi being carved from natural Greenstone where the colouring will differ depending on the elements in the stone.
