Commissions

Every commissioned taonga begins with kōrero.

Whakairo has long carried whakapapa, pūrākau, memory, and identity through form. In the same spirit, each carving is shaped through shared whakaaro, intention, and connection, becoming a taonga that holds personal meaning.

Creating across both contemporary and customary forms, commissions may include tekoteko, pare, tewhatewha, patu, pekapeka, sculptural works, architectural pieces, and bespoke carved taonga. Each work is approached through a considered and collaborative process, with no two carvings ever the same.

Commissions are welcomed for significant milestones, remembrance pieces, weddings, birthdays, whānau taonga, architectural spaces, and other meaningful occasions throughout the year.

A limited number of whakairo commissions are undertaken annually, allowing time for research, design, carving, and finishing, with each taonga developing naturally through the process.

THE PROCESS

ENQUIRY

Get in touch with as much detail as possible about your whakaaro, timeframe, budget, and the type of whakairo or taonga you are interested in.

If enquiring about a tewhatewha, rākau Māori, or other customary forms, please let us know whether the work is intended for functional or ornamental use, and whether a display mount is required.

KŌRERO

Every commission begins with a conversation. Where possible, kanohi ki te kanohi is preferred, though phone and video calls are also welcomed.

This stage allows space to discuss narrative, symbolism, materials, scale, and the intention behind the work.

CREATION

Once the concept and scope of the work are confirmed, carving begins.

Whakairo is a slow and considered process shaped through narrative, material, detail, and the unique characteristics of each piece of wood.

Depending on the scale and complexity of the work, completion time may range from several weeks to many months, with even smaller taonga often requiring extensive carving, preparation, and finishing.

Throughout the process, progress updates and imagery may be shared as the taonga takes shape.

COMPLETION

Once completed, each taonga is carefully finished and prepared for collection, delivery, or installation. Depending on the nature of the work, this may include oiling, binding, mounting, or final presentation details before the taonga returns to its new home.

From initial kōrero through to completion, no two commissions are approached the same way. Each taonga develops through shared whakaaro, craftsmanship, and the unique character of the material itself.

COMMISSION ENQUIRIES

Complete the form below or email contact@toimaaka.co.nz to begin a kōrero about your whakaaro, timeframe, budget, and the type of whakairo or taonga you are interested in.