Gallery | Wood Carving | Wahaika

Wahaika

Wood Carving

Certificate of
Authenticity
included
Commission
available
Local &
International
Shipping
Thomas Herbert thumbnail
Thomas Herbert Mātanga Whakairo
Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Rongomai, Ngāti Te Wehi, Ngāti Whare, Ngāti Hikairo
More work from this Artist

$2,500 NZD

Dimensions
Scancode
400mm x 130mm x 20mm
3280TH
Product Local &
International
Shipping
Product PAYMENT 100%
SECURED
credit card, paypal
Commission
Description
The literal meaning of wahaika is: ‘waha’ (mouth); and, ‘ika’ (fish). It was specifically named because of the gap on the side of the weapon. Wahaika were used in close hand-to-hand combat to defect blows, and to strike the chest, head and wrist. Many wahaika have a small figure carved on their side called a pūkaiora which represented a tribal war God that would guard over the warrior during battle. The whiti or small head at the end of the handle was also a form of guardian. Wahaika are usually made from native hardwoods or whalebone.