item details
NameMere pounamu (nephrite weapon)
ProductionUnknown; maker/artist; 1800-1900; Wairarapa
Classificationclubs, edged weapons, mere pounamu
Materialskawakawa (stone)
Materials SummarySouth Westland source; 'Barn Bay' type stone
DimensionsOverall: 109mm (width), 314mm (length), 13mm (depth)
Registration NumberME012879
Credit linePurchased 1973
Overview
This mere pounamu (nephrite weapon) symbolises a relationship forged between two communities.
When a wharenui (meeting house) was opened at Papawai, Southern Wairarapa, in 1900, related groups travelled from throughout the district for the occasion. A marriage was arranged between Hiraani Toki, youngest granddaughter of the chief Hoani Toki, and the son of Waimarama Puhara Hawaikirangi, a visiting chief from Heretaunga (Hastings).
Hiraani accompanied the Heretaunga people on their return home. The mere went with her as a symbol of the relationship between the two groups. Unfortunately, the son of Waimarama Puhara died before the marriage could take place.