Kōtuku Necklace

This Kōtuku pendant is just stunning.

Hand sawn from a NZ two dollar coin.

Such a beautiful and sleek looking and feeling pendant. And the shine is just eye-catching.

Both the ring and bail have been crafted from recycled vintage sterling silver.

The is balanced perfectly, and comes hanging on a 47cm sterling silver chain.

Will rarely need cleaning, when it does gently clean with a soft cloth and silver polish.

Please see more information on the Kōtuku below the following information.

Afterpay available at checkout.

**Currently posting twice a week**

Like many pieces I create out of vintage items, they may carry signs of a previous well loved life, which makes each piece perfectly imperfect. Cutlery used if vintage plated silver unless stated otherwise.

This gorgeous piece will come in a gift box, that I have crafted from 100% upcycled materials.

Handcrafted treasures from my studio in Dannevirke.

I have contacted the RBNZ to make sure I can use these coins in my jewellery.

The Kōtuku has long been revered in Māori culture as a taonga species and a symbol of rarity, prestige, and good fortune. Featured in many legends and proverbial sayings, its pure white plumage and spectacular breeding plumes set it apart from other birds.
Like those of the Huia, the feathers of the Kōtuku were symbols of great mana, particularly the highly prized breeding plumes, which could be worn only by men of high rank.

A sighting of the Kōtuku was considered an extraordinary, almost mythical event, and its rarity, particularly in the North Island, further enhanced its mystique. The phrase ‘He Kōtuku rerenga tahi’ - loosely translated as 'a White Heron's flight is seen but once' - was used to honour distinguished visitors, signifying a rare and momentous occasion. To be compared to the Kōtuku was a mark of exceptional esteem.

When Queen Elizabeth II became the first reigning monarch to visit New Zealand in 1953–54, Māori bestowed upon her the title Te Kōtuku, likening her to the rare and revered bird—a once-in-a-lifetime visitor embodying grace and distinction.

The significance of the Kōtuku extends beyond the physical realm, and in Māori mythology, it is said to accompany the wairua, or spirit of the deceased, from the earth to the stars, further strengthening its association with the spiritual world.