Tangaroa - Tuakana
$185.00
Choosing Your Taonga
Each of our koikoi is individually numbered — no two are ever the same. We believe it is not just you who chooses the taonga — the taonga chooses you.
About our Tuakana rākau
The Tuakana koikoi is created for whānau aged 10 years and above. At 135cm, it represents the next progression after the Teina, carrying greater length and presence to challenge coordination, discipline and confidence.
Features
Wood type: Tawhai
Length: 135cm x 25mm diameter
Binding: Dark blue semi-waxed cord
Feathers: Dark Teal Schlappen Strung Feathers
Finish: Beeswax natural finish
Who is Tangaroa?
Tangaroa is the atua of the seas and the kaitiaki of all life within the ocean. The moana can be calm and peaceful one moment, wild and destructive the next. For Māori, the ocean is central to life. A source of kai, resources and connection. Tangaroa is one of the 70 children of Ranginui and Papatūānuku, and his domain is Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the great ocean of Kiwa.
Significance for Tuakana
The Tuakana reflects the power and rhythm of the tides. Just as the older sibling carries responsibility and guidance, this taonga teaches its bearer to move with the ocean's flow — steady, commanding and strong. It reminds us that the sea is both a protector and a teacher, instilling discipline and humility to those who walk with it.
What is a koikoi?
Traditionally, the koikoi was a long spear sharpened on both ends, used with a two-handed grip to strike and parry.
At Tekotiri, each taonga carries its own mauri, reminding us that every journey is unique. More than rākau, they are pathways of connection, guiding whānau back to their whakapapa and forward into their own journey.
Continue the journey
Explore our guided mau rākau tutorials with Caleb and Jackie Kutia on YouTube, and walk further with us in this kaupapa.
Ngā mihi nui,
Caleb & Jackie Kutia
Founders of Tekotiri Limited