The matau, or fish hook, bone carving represents prosperity, abundance and fertility.

 

Wearing the bone fishhook carving is a sign of respect for the sea and its creatures so it is also regarded as a good luck charm providing protection and safety while traveling over water.

 

This particular fish hook design represents the hook fashioned by Maui, the trickster hero of Maori mythology, who used it to haul up the North Island of New Zealand while fishing with his brothers. It was made from the jawbone of his grandparent and baited with his own blood. A powerful karakia (incantation) was recited that made heavy objects light, allowing the hero to raise his mighty catch. The North Island is known as 'Te Ika a Maui' or 'The fish of Maui'.

 

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