This Maori Carved Wood Hook stands approximately 435mm (17") high and 140mm (5 1/2") wide, and is made from Matai, a native New Zealand timber.

The Maori Hook, the hei matau, is an important symbol to Maori.  In Maori mythology Maui fished up New Zealand from the sea, and the sea was a vital part of Maori life, for food and for travel. 

The Hei Matau design signifies abundance, strength and determination.  It is believed to bring peace, prosperity and good health to the owner, and is a good luck charm for catching positive energy.  The Maori Fish Hook is also a good luck symbol for safe travel over water.

So this Hei Matau Carving makes a great trophy or gift to a person who has shown great strength and determination.  It would also look good inside a boat.

Note the Manaia head at the top of the Hook. The Manaia is a Maori spiritual guardian. It acts as a provider and protector over the sky, earth and sea. Usually depicted with a birdlike head, as in this example.

You can choose the trophy only, or we have some engraving options:

• Engraving into the front of the stand (maximum 3 words) - enter the words in the Options box above
• Engraving onto a gold metal plaque (maximum 6 words) - enter the words in the Options box above
• Engraving into the front of the stand, directly into the wood, AND two plaques on the back (maximum 3 words each plaque) 

The front or back face of the base has an approximate area of 9cm x 2cm (3 1/2" x 3/4") available for engraving.  Leave the engraving details in the box above, or email them to us.  There are also two areas on the back of the hook (see photo below) which can be used for engraved plaques.  The top plaque can be approximately 8cm x 5cm, and the bottom plaque approximately 10cm x 3.5cm).