A 19th century taiaha (fighting staff), the broad arero (tongue) finely carved with rauponga spirals. Upoko (head) displays a prominent mouth with elliptical paua eyes (one absent) and kowhaiwhai pattern to the brow. Slender tapering shaft with rounded end. Muka bound collar with kiwi feathers. Slender tapering shaft with rounded end. 160 cm length.