Guardian of Protection & Guidance

Manaia

Wear a Manaia pounamu for protection, guidance, and a link to wairua (the spirit world).

Meaning Behind the Manaia

The Manaia is a significant symbol in Māori tradition, typically portrayed with the head of a bird, body of a human, and tail of a fish, symbolising unity between sky, earth, and sea. It serves as a guardian, offering protection, courage, and spiritual connection, linking us to ancestral wisdom and the unseen spiritual world.

“Whiria te tāngata.”

Weave the people together - Maori Proverb

The Significance of Manaia’s Three Fingers

Traditionally, the Manaia’s three fingers represent the cycle of birth, life, and death, sometimes accompanied by a fourth finger symbolising the afterlife, reflecting the continuous cycle of existence and our ancestral bonds.

Protection, Harmony & Spiritual Guidance

The Manaia pendant safeguards the wearer from harm and negative influences. Its bird-like form symbolises spiritual freedom and the ability to move between physical and spiritual realms, enhancing overall wellbeing (hauora) through balance and harmony.

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“A beautifully crafted symbol of protection, brings a true sense of peace and strength.” — Emma H. (Customer)

Cultural Origins & Māori Values

The Manaia, derived from the Māori concept of "mana" (spiritual authority), has deep roots in Māori mythology. Traditionally carved from pounamu (greenstone), wood, or bone, it embodies significant Māori values including manaakitanga (compassion), kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and whanaungatanga (connection). Each pendant strengthens relationships with whānau, community, culture, and the natural world.

Meaning, Occasion Ideas & Symbolism

When to Gift a Manaia Pendant

Protection & Comfort
Spiritual support during challenging times.

New Journeys & Travels
Guidance and protection for new beginnings.

Celebration & Achievement
Honouring significant milestones and personal growth.

Family & Cultural Identity
Reinforcing bonds of family, friendship, and heritage.

Carving a Pounmau Manaia

Each Manaia starts as a carefully selected slice of pounamu, chosen for its rich colour and unique grain. The manaia design is sketched onto the stone, then roughed out on diamond wheels and grinders. Our carvers refine every curve with hand‑held diamond drills, before a final polish brings out the deep green glow. Completed with an adjustable cord, each pendant unites traditional Māori design and modern carving precision.

Caring for your Roimata pendant

Handle gently: avoid dropping or chipping.

Safe Storage: keep separately or wrapped to prevent scratching.

Regular Wear: frequent wear enhances colour through your skin’s oils. Re-binding available for cords if needed.

Cleaning Gently: use mild soap and water; occasionally nourish with natural oils.

Water Exposure: safe for swimming; rinse afterward with fresh water and dry gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Manaia symbolises spiritual protection, harmony, guidance, and life’s ongoing journey.

Ideal for anyone seeking spiritual strength, protection, or cultural connection, men, women, and rangatahi (young people). Especially meaningful during life's transitions, travels, or emotional challenges.

No, it arrives unblessed, allowing you to follow your own tikanga (customs). Bless it formally or let significance emerge naturally through wear.

  • Awa (Water) Blessing:
    Hold your pendant in flowing water, stating your intention clearly (e.g., “May this taonga provide comfort and strength”). Gently dry afterward.
  • Shared Intention:
    Hold the pendant together, sharing your intentions openly, creating a meaningful connection.
  • Karakia with a Kaumātua:
    Seek advice and blessing from a kaumātua (elder) or your local marae.

Whichever path you take, or if you decide to skip a formal blessing entirely, the pounamu will carry the meaning and respect you give it.

Āe (yes). Traditionally, Māori gifted, traded, and personally selected pounamu, believing each stone’s mana (power) uniquely resonates with one’s wairua (spirit). Choosing your own Manaia pendant is an empowering act of self‑care and reflection, it deepens your connection to the land, culture, and heritage of Aotearoa.

That said, gifting a Manaia carries its own special intention. Presenting someone with pounamu is a profound gesture of aroha (love) and respect, honouring your bond and wishing them strength and protection on their journey.

Discover Our Collection

Every Manaia pendant is unique, displaying individual colours, patterns, and inherent mauri (life force). No two pendants are identical, each resonating personally and becoming part of your unique spiritual journey.

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