Overview
The toki (adze) was a tool of great value to Māori – and pounamu toki were the most prized of all. Using tools like this, Māori developed an advanced carving tradition.
After years of use and resharpening, pounamu tools would become short and out of proportion. They would then be recycled. Old blades were often sawn lengthwise to make smaller tools like chisels, or carved into hei tiki (pendants in human form).