Waitī Hei Tiki on Stand

Waitī Hei Tiki on Stand | Alex Sands 

Matariki – A Limited Edition Collection of Nine Hei Tiki

Waitī, one of the twin stars, governs freshwater food sources. Carved from Kōkopu pounamu, named after the native freshwater fish, the hei tiki is given two heads to acknowledge its twin nature.

She features sideways-notched pāua eyes, a whare tangata, and enclosed teeth. Waitī is suspended on a Tan cord.

This piece sits elegantly on a deeply textured, highly figured native wood plinth.

From a limited edition collection comprising nine unique hei tiki, each hand-carved from a different variety of New Zealand pounamu. Together they honour the nine stars of Matariki, with each stone carefully chosen for its physical characteristics and cultural associations to reflect the nature of its corresponding star. While united as a complete series, every hei tiki stands as an individual work, carrying its own identity through material, form and symbolism.

Overall, the collection celebrates the interconnected relationships between Matariki, pounamu, whakapapa, and the natural world, with each variety of stone chosen not only for its beauty but for the story it helps tell. Together, the nine hei tiki form a complete narrative of remembrance, nourishment, the environment, and hope for the generations to come.

Pounamu Dimensions:

Width - 70mm x Height - 130mm

Overall Dimensions Including Base:

Width - 170mm x Height - 190mm x Depth - 110mm

Matariki Herenga Waka - A Gathering of Many Voices

A group exhibition to celebrate Matariki, 02 - 12 July 2026

In a shared exploration of connection, six Māori artists contribute to a collective constellation of works. Like the stars of the Matariki cluster, each voice is distinct and yet deeply interconnected.
Alex Sands | Anna Gedson | Joanne Barrett | Mat Scott | Medina Koni | Ra Gossage