New Zealand Hand-Carved Wooden Manaia with Pāua Shell Eyes on Display Base – 30cm - WM847

A Beautiful Symbol of New Zealand Artistry & Tradition

Celebrate the beauty of New Zealand craftsmanship with this exquisite hand-carved wooden Manaia, crafted from NZ hardwood and beautifully presented on a matching wooden display base.

The Manaia is a recognised figure in traditional Māori art, often depicted as a mythical guardian with a combination of bird-like, human and serpent-like features. It is commonly associated with protection, guidance and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.

This striking carving captures the distinctive character of the Manaia through its elegant flowing form, intricate detailing and beautifully sculpted design.

The carving features two expressive bird-like heads, each enhanced with a vibrant natural New Zealand pāua shell eye. The iridescent blue and green tones of the pāua create a captivating contrast against the rich brown hardwood.

The beautifully curved body incorporates intricate spiral patterns, sweeping feather-like details and carefully carved scale-like textures. Openwork sections throughout the design create depth and dimension, allowing light to pass through and highlighting the craftsmanship from different viewing angles.

A prominent central spiral adds visual interest, while the flowing interconnected forms create an elegant and balanced composition.

The rich brown wood finish enhances the natural grain and brings out the fine carving details, giving the piece a warm and timeless appearance.

Standing 300mm (30cm) tall, this Manaia is securely mounted on a rectangular wooden display base measuring 150mm x 60mm (15cm x 6cm), providing a stylish and stable presentation.

A Meaningful New Zealand Gift & Keepsake

With its distinctive design and traditional symbolism, this handcrafted Manaia makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates New Zealand culture, craftsmanship and decorative artwork.

The Manaia's association with protection and guidance makes it particularly meaningful as a gift for new beginnings, achievements, milestones and special occasions.

Perfect for corporate presentations, retirement gifts, sporting awards, anniversaries, birthdays, farewell gifts, cultural celebrations and special recognition awards.

Its elegant sculptural design also makes it a striking decorative feature for homes, offices, reception areas, boardrooms and display cabinets.

Whether purchased as a New Zealand souvenir, a treasured keepsake or a personalised presentation award, this beautifully handcrafted Manaia is a distinctive piece to be admired for years to come.

Optional Personalised Engraving – Additional $30.00

Make this special Manaia carving even more memorable with an optional gold-coloured personalised engraving plaque, fitted to the wooden display base.

Measuring 110mm x 30mm, the plaque can be professionally engraved with your chosen wording, creating a unique and meaningful presentation piece.

Perfect for engraving:

• Recipient's name
• Company or organisation name
• Retirement or farewell message
• Sporting award or achievement
• Anniversary or special occasion
• Commemorative date or personal message

The personalised plaque adds an elegant finishing touch, making this handcrafted Manaia an excellent choice for corporate gifts, awards and special presentations.

Product Specifications

• Product: Hand-Carved Wooden Manaia on Display Base
• Design: Traditional Māori-Inspired Manaia Carving
• Country of Origin: Made in New Zealand
• Material: New Zealand Hardwood
• Craftsmanship: Hand-Carved
• Eyes: Natural New Zealand Pāua Shell Inlays
• Carving Design: Flowing Manaia Form with Two Bird-Like Heads
• Decorative Details: Intricate Spirals, Feather-Like Patterns & Scale-Like Textures
• Additional Features: Decorative Openwork Sections
• Finish: Rich Brown Wood Finish with Darker Carved Accents
• Display Base: Solid Rectangular Wooden Base
• Base Dimensions: 150mm x 60mm (15cm x 6cm)
• Total Height: 300mm (30cm), Including Base
• Display Type: Freestanding Decorative Ornament
• Optional Plaque: Gold-Coloured Personalised Engraving Plaque
• Plaque Dimensions: 110mm x 30mm
• Engraving Cost: Additional $30.00
• Ideal For: Corporate Gifts, Retirement Presentations, Sporting Awards, Anniversaries, Special Occasions, New Zealand Souvenirs, Cultural Gifts & Home Décor

Optional Engraving

Personalise Your Manaia – Only $30.00 Extra

Add a personalised gold-coloured engraving plaque to the wooden display base to create a memorable gift or presentation award.

Plaque Size: 110mm x 30mm

Ideal for names, award titles, special dates, corporate messages and meaningful commemorative wording.

Engraving wording is subject to available space. As this is a handcrafted wooden product featuring natural pāua shell, variations in wood grain, colour and shell patterns may occur, adding to the individual character of each piece.