Wahaika were used in close hand-to-hand combat to defect blows, and to strike the chest, head and wrist. Many wahaika have a small figure carved on their side called a Pūkaiora which represented a tribal war God that would guard over the warrior during battle. This unique piece has been made using a type of alloy. Maybe aluminium? It has been made using a cast mould. Taken from a pre European carving currently housed in the Auckland Museum.
Measurements: 340mm Long x 120mm Wide x 20mm Deep.
