Roimata Toroa in gorgeous Tangiwai

Roimata Toroa symbolises a deep unabiding sorrow, as that felt by Pourangahua for his mistakes.  And an unbreakable love, like the love Ruakapanga felt for his taonga toroa. The Roimata Toroa also speaks of the importance of following tikanga and respecting the wisdom of those who are here to help us on our journey. (read story below)

Have a look through the photos and you will get a glimpse of how this pounamu glows around the edges.  If you want to see some extra special magic, go grab a torch(your phone torch is perfect) or find some bright sunlight and hold it up to this taonga.  The light lets you see right in to the intricate depths of this taonga.

If you want to let someone know they are loved, that you see their pain, or that you are admire their integrity, this is the taonga for you.

The Story

Roimata Toroa is the tears cried by two sacred albatross that accompanied Pourangahua to Aotearoa. 

Pourangahua was an agriculturist travelling to Aotearoa to grow kumara. The kumara was gifted to him by Ruakapanga, a tohunga and learned scientist.  

Ruakapanga lent Pourangahua two pet albatrosses to accompany him on his journey. He gave him strict instructions on how to care for the birds, and a karakia to give thanksgiving for their safe return. However, in his hurry to see his wife Kaniowai, Pourangahua took a shortcut, ran into a taniwha, forgot the karakia and failed to care for the birds. Consequently, this led to the bird’s grief and eventual demise.

Upon realising that he had dishonoured Ruakapanga, Pourangahua tries to cover his mistake. He belatedly spoke the karakia, but it was too late. The damage was done, the toroa were weak and abused.  They flew back to Ruakapanga. He was furious when he saw the state of his beloved toroa. In his anger, he cursed the kumara with a blight that can wreak havoc to an entire years crop.

This story comes from Tim’s Te Tairawhiti Ngati Porou whakapapa.  

• One of a kind taonga by Timoti
• Tangiwai from Te Tai Poutini
• 57mm length x 37mm max width

💚Now every taonga you purchase helps us to carve a taonga for EVERY tamariki in care in Aotearoa. You can read more about our Tū Māia project here. Ngā mihi mahana for your support of this kaupapa!💚