Story: Ngā manu – birds

Waka huia (2nd of 2)

Waka huia

This waka huia (treasure box) contains a single huia feather. While the main purpose of waka huia was to hold these prized feathers, they were also used for other taonga (treasures). The intricate carving shows how important the boxes were.

Using this item

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference: MA_F.006611/01-09

Permission of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Kelly Keane-Tuala, 'Ngā manu – birds - Symbols of status', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/12145/waka-huia (accessed 30 March 2024)

Story by Kelly Keane-Tuala, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015