The concept of the Wakapounamu is to highlight the importance of this much treasured resource, and to emphasize its beauty when either carved into a work of art or as it lay in its natural form. The Tiki form is a symbol of fertility, and here it personifies the beginning of life of the Pounamu, as it is born from the land. The Ruru (owl) acts as the Kaitiaki (guardian) of the stone and the message it emanates is that we must protect, nurture and indeed honour such a valued treasure."
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