Whakatipu I Te Maemae
"Growth in the Pain"
is a Kotiate carved from a rare plum burl,
It represents pain, more so how it can transform us. As a traditional Māori hand weapon, the kotiate embodies courage and protection and in this piece, it also symbolizes the quiet battles we fight and the wisdom we gain through them.
A burl is formed when a tree is wounded or stressed. In the process of healing it will grow in an irregular way, on the outside it looks rough, swollen and some liken it to looking like a wart. But hidden beneath the bark is often the most beautiful wood, with a swirling grain pattern interlocking and folding over itself.
Like the burl, we as humans are shaped by our trials. Our hardships may mark us in ways that feel uncomfortable or visible, like the rough exterior of the burl. Yet within those very experiences lies depth, character, and beauty that could not have formed otherwise. We grow in the pain. Our struggles create the unique patterns of who we are.
Timber - Plum
Display Stand - Macrocarpa, Brass
Taura - Black Cotton Cordage
Finished with Danish oil
Overall Dimensions (L x H x D) - 400mm x 170mm x 120mm
Date: 7-OCT-2025
Artist - Jo Waititi
Pickup currently not available
CARE & MAINTENANCE
This taonga has been handcrafted from natural timber. Like all living materials, wood responds to its environment and may subtly change over time.
To keep your taonga looking its best:
- Keep it out of prolonged direct sunlight.
- Avoid exposure to excessive moisture, heat, or rapid temperature changes.
- Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth.
Small marks, colour changes, and the development of character over time are part of the natural journey of the wood and add to the unique story of your taonga.
Treat it with care, and it will continue to carry its story for generations to come
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Ready-Made Items
- Please allow up to 1–2 weeks for your order to be processed and dispatched.
- Once dispatched, you will receive tracking details where applicable.
Custom Orders
- Custom commissions require a minimum of 3 weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of the piece and current workload.
- An estimated completion timeframe will be provided when your order is confirmed.
While every effort is made to meet estimated timeframes, delays may occasionally occur due to material availability, commission complexity, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Returns & Exchanges
Due to the handcrafted nature of my work, all sales are considered final. However, if your item arrives damaged or there is an issue with your order, please contact me within 7 days of receiving it so we can work towards a solution.
Custom-made commissions cannot be returned or refunded unless they arrive damaged or there is a fault in workmanship.
Please note:
- Natural variations in timber grain, colour, figure, and character are not considered defects.
- Small imperfections are part of the uniqueness of handcrafted wooden taonga.
If a return is approved, the item must be returned in its original condition before a refund or replacement can be processed.
If you have any questions about your order, feel free to get in touch before purchasing.