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Ceramic Parata Kaitiaki Red

$30.00 NZD

This Ceramic Parata Kaitiaki by Michael Matchitt is designed to act as a guardian watching over you.

Alert and watchful, a parata is a human-style face, usually with moko (facial tattoo). It can represent a significant ancestor or influential person. Hang a parata in your home to remember loved ones who are gone, or give one as a gift in gratitude, farewell, or congratulations.

  • Red ceramic parata
  • A guardian watching over you
  • A parata is a representation of Māori culture that will be recognised anywhere in the world
  • Measures approximately 21cm x 15cm x 5.5cm
  • Comes boxed


Proudly part of a legacy of whakairo, Michael Matchitt descends from Te Whānau ā Te Ēhutu and Te Whānau ā Apanui – iwi recognised for their contributions not only to whakairo but also to teaching and the arts. Michael graduated with honours from Te Puia (The Māori Arts and Crafts Institute in Rotorua) in 1988, becoming part of an elite group of carvers steeped in traditional methods and knowledge. This has been his lifelong work. Michael's creations are taonga that can be handed down through generations.