Hei Tiki Pounamu – Meaning, Symbolism, and Cultural Significance

Have you ever felt the cool weight of greenstone in your hands and wondered about the story it carries? In Aotearoa (New Zealand), pounamu (also called New Zealand jade or greenstone) is revered for its mauri (life force) and mana (spiritual power). One of the most enduring expressions of these qualities is found in the hei tiki, a carved Māori tiki pendant believed to bridge past, present, and future.

"Carved in the human form, the hei tiki pounamu is an enduring symbol of ancestry, protection, and cultural identity."

What is a Hei Tiki?

The term hei tiki derives from two Māori words: hei, referring to something worn around the neck, and tiki, meaning a human figure carved from wood, bone, or stone. Historically, Māori artisans repurposed older greenstone adzes (toki pounamu) into hei tiki, preserving each stone’s mana (spiritual prestige) and crafting what would become a treasured symbol of cultural resilience.

Origins in Māori Legend
Some say the Māori tiki figure has roots in ancient Polynesia, but it gained unique significance in Aotearoa. Each hei tiki carries ancestral connections, including links to Tiki, often regarded as the first human in Māori mythology, and the protective qualities of gods and ancestors. By wearing it, one symbolically carries the power and presence of those who came before.

Hei Tiki Meaning and Symbolism

Whakapapa and Tūpuna (Ancestors)
At its core, the hei tiki stands for whakapapa (genealogy), linking the wearer to their tūpuna (ancestors). Generations may have worn the same tiki, imbuing it with the mauri of those who came before.

Life, Fertility, and Protection
Many hei tiki designs resemble an unborn child, emphasizing themes of fertility and the promise of new life. Historically, they’ve also been viewed as protective talismans, warding off harm and guiding their wearer.

Mana and Strength
As a highly prized taonga (treasure), a hei tiki carries mana, or spiritual power. Worn by rangatira (chiefs) and warriors, it was a source of both personal strength and the collective esteem of the whānau or iwi (tribe).

A Living Cultural Tradition

Passing Down Pounamu
Hei tiki pendants are often regarded as heirlooms, passed through whānau lines to uphold familial stories and honour ancestral legacies. This tradition continues to this day, with many Māori families gifting a treasured hei tiki to mark significant milestones.

Respectful Use and Education
To Māori, a hei tiki is more than an ornament, it’s a cherished connection to culture and lineage. Wearing or gifting a hei tiki calls for understanding and respect, especially for those outside the culture. Learning about its significance helps ensure the piece remains an authentic symbol of heritage.

Gifting a Hei Tiki

In Māori culture, giving a hei tiki is a profound expression of aroha (love) and respect. Whether celebrating births, weddings, graduations, or other major life events, the act of gifting a hei tiki signifies genuine care and the hope of ancestral guidance.

"When you place a pounamu hei tiki around someone’s neck, you bestow not just a gift but a living story, binding them to past generations."

For anyone—Māori or non-Māori—who wishes to share its cultural significance, taking the time to learn about the pendant’s origins and symbolism fosters deeper connections and a sense of gratitude.

Hei Tiki in Modern New Zealand

As pounamu and the Māori tiki gain global recognition, hei tiki pendants are worn both locally and internationally. This rising popularity highlights the timeless appeal of these carvings, yet also underscores the responsibility to honour Māori traditions:

• Cultural Integrity: Engaging respectfully with Māori knowledge and protocols helps safeguard the hei tiki’s identity as a sacred taonga.

• Contemporary Adaptations: Modern carvers continue to experiment with designs, materials, and styles, reflecting the evolving nature of Māori art while holding onto core values of ancestry, protection, and belonging.

 

Caring for Your Hei Tiki

Gentle Cleaning: Rinse with warm water and wipe with a soft cloth to preserve the stone’s lustre.
Respectful Storage: When not worn, place your hei tiki in a special pouch or box, reflecting its role as a revered treasure.

If you notice any wear or damage over time, see it as an opportunity to repair or bless the piece, preserving the mana it carries.

Honouring Tradition and Embracing the Future

From its Polynesian roots to its vital place in modern Aotearoa, the hei tiki pounamu is much more than a piece of jewellery, it’s a legacy. Worn against the heart, it whispers of whakapapa, of protective energies, and of the ties that bind past, present, and future.

According to our whānau relative, the late Russell Beck, a renowned authority on pounamu

“Each piece of greenstone gathers its own spirit as it is carved, worn, and passed on.”

At Arrowtown Stonework, we proudly showcase authentic hei tiki created by skilled artists and storytellers from across Aotearoa. We invite you to discover a pounamu piece that connects with your story and honours the living tradition of this treasured Māori symbol.