Hei Matau - Traditional Māori Fish Hook Symbol Meaning & Cultural Significance #3647464 (License: Personal Use)

This is a stylized representation of the hei matau, a traditional Māori fish hook carved from bone, wood, or stone. Its curved shape mimics the jaw of a fish, often incorporating a koru (spiral) motif symbolizing new life and growth, while the wrapped binding at the top represents ancestral ties and unity. The hei matau is worn as a pendant for protection, good fortune, and safe passage over water.

Commonly used on cultural education websites, museum exhibits, jewelry product pages, and tourism sites promoting New Zealand’s indigenous heritage; matches user intent to learn about Māori symbolism or source authentic cultural imagery.