History and Meaning of Hei Toki

At Moko Pounamu, we are deeply honoured to share the stories and traditions behind the pounamu treasures we create. Among our most popular and cherished designs is the pounamu toki, a pendant steeped in history, cultural significance, and timeless beauty. In this blog, we explore the origins of the toki, its profound meaning, and the variations crafted by our skilled artisan carvers. 

The History of the Toki

The toki, traditionally known as an adze, or form of axe, was a vital tool used by Māori for carving, shaping wood, and building waka (canoes), whare (houses), and other essential structures.

Made from pounamu (New Zealand greenstone), the toki was not only a practical tool but also a symbol of strength, determination, and skill. Pounamu was particularly prized as a material for making toki due to the ability to create a finely honed edge, perfect for shaping wooden taonga, waka and weapons.

Adzite and nephrite (pounamu) are found only in the South Island of Aotearoa, yet adzes made from these materials have been found throughout New Zealand, indicating extensive trade occurred between the North and South Islands.

Making a stone adze was a skilled job. Boulders or blocks were broken up using other boulders. Selected pieces were then worked into the desired shape (termed a roughout) by striking flakes off the edges with hammer stones, which were also used to smooth rough surfaces by ‘pecking’ or ‘bruising’. The final step was to polish the adze and sharpen the cutting edge by rubbing it back and forth on a wet grinding stone (hōanga) – a time-consuming task.

Over time, the toki evolved from a functional tool into a revered taonga (treasure), worn as a pendant to represent the qualities it embodied. Today, the pounamu toki is a powerful symbol of resilience, leadership, and the ability to overcome challenges. 

The Meaning of the Toki

The toki is more than just a beautiful piece of pounamu—it carries deep spiritual and cultural significance. In Māori culture, the toki represents: 

• Strength and Power: Just as the toki was used to carve and shape, it symbolizes the strength to carve one’s own path in life. 

• Leadership and Authority: The toki is often associated with chiefs and leaders, embodying wisdom and the ability to guide others. 

• Determination and Focus: The precision required to use a toki reflects the importance of focus and perseverance in achieving one’s goals. 

Wearing a toki is a way to connect with these values and carry them with you in your daily life. These particular attributes and values are part of the reason we have incorporated Toki into each of our licensed collections for the All Blacks, Black Ferns and Super Rugby. We believe there is a strong connection between our leading sportspeople and the mana of Toki.

The Art of Crafting a Toki at Moko Pounamu

At Moko Pounamu, each toki is handcrafted by our skilled artisans, who honour the traditions of their ancestors while infusing their own creativity and expertise. We take great care to select the finest pounamu, ensuring every piece is unique and of the highest quality. 

Our artisans create multiple variations of toki, each with its own distinct character: 

1. Traditional Toki: A classic design that stays true to the original form of the adze, with clean lines and a timeless silhouette. This style is perfect for those who appreciate the simplicity and strength of the toki’s traditional shape. 

2. Curved Toki: A modern interpretation of the toki, featuring a gentle curve that adds a touch of elegance. This design is ideal for those seeking a balance of tradition and contemporary style. 

3. Notched Toki: Toki designed with notches along one side or both sides were traditionally created to enhance the working edge and make it easier to release the tool from the material being worked.

Why Choose a Toki from Moko Pounamu?

When you purchase a toki pendant from Moko Pounamu, you’re not just buying a piece of jewellery—you’re investing in a taonga that carries the spirit of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Our commitment to authenticity, quality, and respect for Māori culture ensures that every toki is a meaningful and lasting treasure. 

Caring for Your Toki 

Pounamu is a durable and long-lasting stone, but it also requires care to maintain its beauty. To keep your toki looking its best: 

• Wear it close to your skin, as the natural oils will help preserve its lustre. 
• Clean it gently with a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. 
• Store it in a safe place when not in use to prevent scratches or damage. 

A Taonga for Generations

A pounamu toki is more than a pendant—it’s a connection to the past, a symbol of strength for the present, and a legacy for the future. At Moko Pounamu, we are proud to continue the tradition of crafting these beautiful taonga, ensuring that the stories and values of the toki live on for generations to come. 

Explore our collection of pounamu toki today and find the piece that speaks to you. Whether for yourself or as a gift, a toki from Moko Pounamu is a treasure that will be cherished forever. 

Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manawanui.

(Be strong, be brave, be steadfast.)