Pale Copper Blue Wahaika Mangōpare Design

Pale Copper Blue Wahaika Mangōpare Design | Mike Cameron

In this significant work, Mike Cameron translates the traditional Māori wahaika (short club) into the luminous medium of cast gaffe glass.

By recreating this ancestral silhouette, Mike explores the intersection of strength and fragility, transforming a historically powerful form into a translucent vessel of light and culture.

The piece features intricate surface detailing with patterns that flow across the blade, echoing traditional whakairo (carving).

The handle is expertly bound with a textured fibre wrap, providing a tactile contrast to the smooth, glowing glass.

Resting on a bespoke wood base, this work stands as a sophisticated tribute to Aotearoa’s heritage, reimagined through a bold, contemporary lens.

The patu is a traditional hand-held striking weapon, usually made from pounamu, wood, bone, or whalebone. It was used as a close-combat weapon and could also represent strength, mana, authority and protection. 

The mangōpare pattern represents the hammerhead shark symbolizing strength, courage, determination and leadership. The design is formed by mirroring the stylized head of a hammerhead shark into interlocking curved shapes.

Because the hammerhead shark is a fierce and dominant hunter the pattern embodies tenacity. In Māori tradition sharks are often viewed as kaitiaki (spiritual  guardian's).

It represents the resilience and capability required to lead, protect and navigate difficult times. Historically it was carved onto weapons to invoke the sharks protective power and sharp perception.

The feathers are added to denote status and prestige, showing it belongs to a rangatira or esteemed warriors. The feathers connect the piece to the realms of the atua (gods) and the natural world. Birds are seen as messengers between the physical and spiritual realms, providing spiritual protection to the recipient.

Wahaika Dimensions
Length - 440mm x Width - 25mm x Height - 130mm  

Sculpture Dimensions
Length - 500mm x Width - 80mm x Height - 155mm