New Zealand Pounamu Kaitiaki Manaia Pekapeka

This piece was carved by local Rotorua artist Tamaora Walker and was designed to represent New Zealand's only native land mammal the pekapeka (bat). Pekapeka motifs are believed to symbolise spiritual protection and guardianship and with two outward-facing heads connected through one body, the symmetry of this piece creates a harmonious sense of balance and stability. Beautiful tones of deep forest green to white cloudy hues flow across the piece, and the inlaid eyes are crafted from paua shell.