Tewhatewha
Historically, the tewhatewha was a formidable weapon used by Māori warriors in warfare. Like pouwhenua and taiaha, this long club was designed for sparring and lightning strokes and thrusts, aided by quick footwork on the part of the wielder. The blows were not struck with the blade as one would with an axe, but rather with the thicker straight front edge. Should an enemy begin attacking in close quarters, the pointed end could be used as a bayonet. Due to its length, it doubled as a signaling device from leaders to their warriors to convey directions and signal attacks. The plume of feathers dangling from the rapa distracted the enemy's gaze and could also be used to absorb blood.
A contemporary design of the tewhatewha this beautiful piece stands 1090mm high. With a Pūriri head/blade and Kohekohe shaft it comes with a purpose-built Kohekohe stand and adorned with kahu feathers. Dimensions: head 180mm x 170mm x 25mm
Historically, the tewhatewha was a formidable weapon used by Māori warriors in warfare. Like pouwhenua and taiaha, this long club was designed for sparring and lightning strokes and thrusts, aided by quick footwork on the part of the wielder. The blows were not struck with the blade as one would with an axe, but rather with the thicker straight front edge. Should an enemy begin attacking in close quarters, the pointed end could be used as a bayonet. Due to its length, it doubled as a signaling device from leaders to their warriors to convey directions and signal attacks. The plume of feathers dangling from the rapa distracted the enemy's gaze and could also be used to absorb blood.
A contemporary design of the tewhatewha this beautiful piece stands 1090mm high. With a Pūriri head/blade and Kohekohe shaft it comes with a purpose-built Kohekohe stand and adorned with kahu feathers. Dimensions: head 180mm x 170mm x 25mm
Historically, the tewhatewha was a formidable weapon used by Māori warriors in warfare. Like pouwhenua and taiaha, this long club was designed for sparring and lightning strokes and thrusts, aided by quick footwork on the part of the wielder. The blows were not struck with the blade as one would with an axe, but rather with the thicker straight front edge. Should an enemy begin attacking in close quarters, the pointed end could be used as a bayonet. Due to its length, it doubled as a signaling device from leaders to their warriors to convey directions and signal attacks. The plume of feathers dangling from the rapa distracted the enemy's gaze and could also be used to absorb blood.
A contemporary design of the tewhatewha this beautiful piece stands 1090mm high. With a Pūriri head/blade and Kohekohe shaft it comes with a purpose-built Kohekohe stand and adorned with kahu feathers. Dimensions: head 180mm x 170mm x 25mm