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WAKA KOIWI
The small waka koiwi-inspired artefacts were made to explore the difference in the sizes and types of
receptacles that were made to contain the small bones of children and adults. While it is unlikely
those small containers will ever be found, the need to discuss and debate their uses is part of the wider
discussion on waka tupapaku. The waka koiwi-inspired artefacts were made with red raku, fired and
covered with kokowai or painted with red flax dye. The markings on the waka koiwi-inspired figures
(see Fig. 29) are female and their making was discussed with Shane Whatarau, Ngati Hau tohunga
whakairo.
Figure 29: Maxwell H. (2011). 25.4cm x 7.62cm. Waka Koiwi-inspired artefact.
Bisque fired and covered with red flax dye. A female figure.
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