Cutlery Set [Knife, fork and spoon], in presentation box.

Silver tableware has been made in New Zealand since early colonial times. Initially only a few wealthy individuals could afford to buy it - especially the larger items. Most of the pieces were small, and were often given as gifts to mark special occasions, such as weddings or birthdays. These valued objects were rarely used, and were generally kept on display in their owners' homes.

Local materials and motifs
New Zealand silversmiths often incorporated indigenous materials, such a pounamu (New Zealand greenstone), and motifs, such as engraved depictions of indigenous flora and fauna, into their work.