The Hei Matau is carved in the shape of a stylised fishhook. It represents strength, prosperity, fertility, good luck and safe travel over water.

It’s meaning originated from the Maori legend of Maui who once caught a great fish using only a woven line and hook made from the jawbone of his grandmother. This fish is now said to be the North Island of New Zealand, known as ‘Te Ika a Maui’. Maori would often wear the Hei Matau for practical purposes so that it was not lost while fishing. Eventually, the hook worn around the neck became a good luck charm while fishing and voyaging across water.