PATU Swamp Kauri with Paua Inlay ,Pūkaiora ( God of War) carved
made from New Zealand Swamp Kauri and Paua Inlay
This Patu has very special colors from being thousands of years old . For reasons that we do not know exactly, these trees were laid to rest in the swampy Northern part of New Zealand about 30,000-50,000 years ago.
Hand finished in Osmo oil to give a very natural look.
The Patu is made in Northland of new Zealand in our own workshop.
A Patu is a short 2 edged weapon of wood , tapering in thickness. It was designed to give a cutting blow, used to strike the opponent’s chest, head or wrist. This Patu has a small figure carved on their side, called a Pūkaiora. This represents the tribal God of War who would guard over the warrior during battle.
The Māori term ‘patu’ denotes striking or subduing. Historically and traditionally, these wooden Patu served as symbols of chiefly status. Passed down through generations, their cultural significance is widely recognised within Māori communities.
Used by rangatira (chief/leader) during speeches or ceremonies on the marae, they convey authority and respect, and represent strength and unity. Proudly displayed in homes or offices, they honour New Zealand’s rich history and enduring traditions, continuing to be utilised for speeches on the marae today
Swamp Kauri timber in New Zealand is considered rare for several reasons:
- Unique Growth Conditions: Swamp Kauri comes from ancient Kauri trees that grew in swampy, low-lying areas, often in harsh conditions. The natural habitat limits the trees’ growth, making them less common compared to those growing in more favorable conditions.
- Historical Harvesting: Swamp Kauri logs were often buried in estuaries and swamps over thousands of years, and many trees were harvested in the 19th century, leading to a decline in available timber. While some areas have been protected, the past exploitation has impacted the accessibility of this unique wood.
- Buried Logs: Many Swamp Kauri trees were embedded in peat swamps, where they have been preserved for centuries. The process of excavating these buried logs is labor-intensive and requires specialized techniques, adding to their rarity.
- Conservation Efforts: Due to its historical significance and ecological value, there are strict regulations and conservation efforts in place to protect remaining Swamp Kauri forests. This limits the amount of timber that can be sustainably harvested.
- Unique Characteristics: Each piece of Swamp Kauri timber has its own unique appearance due to its natural aging process, which includes beautiful grain patterns and colors. This uniqueness contributes to its desirability but also to its scarcity.
Combined, these factors make Swamp Kauri timber a rare and highly sought-after material in woodworking and craftsmanship.
