The Sir Cyril Newall New Zealand Collection

This Te Arawa tokotoko features a vertical sequence of carved figures, each intricately linked to represent whakapapa (genealogy) and ancestral presence. The figures are adorned with deeply incised haehae (parallel grooves)and pākati (notched chevrons)—hallmarks of the Anaha Te Rahui carving school. Each figure’s pāua shell eyes symbolise ancestral vision and spiritual awareness. The handle is carved in the form of a stylised bird head, likely a manu rangatira (chiefly bird). 83cm long 

Historical Provenance:

This finely carved tokotoko was presented to Sir Cyril Newall, on the 24th March 1943, during the offcial opening ceremony of Te Awahou's whare wananga, Iawakeheimoa. The ceremony took place in the Rotorua district and was attended by prominent Maori leaders, government offcials, military representatives, and members of the public.

The tokotoko is present in Sir Cyril’s hand in a press photograph of the event. 

Condition: 

Wear commensurate with age.