FAQ

Many of our most frequently asked questions you will find the answers to below; if you have a query that has not been covered here... then Ask us your Question Here.

How should I pay?
Every payment is organised on an individual bases
How long does it take to carve on of your fabulous pieces?

It all depends on...

  1. How sharp the chisel is.
  2. Who the carver is.
  3. What tribal style is being done.
What did the Maori use before steel tools?
A variety of stone tools.
How are carvings finished today?
Using a variety of oils,waxes,sealers and varnishes.
Can you take untreated timber out of the country?
No.
What was the traditional colour?

Red ochre mixed with shark liver oil.

...see Resources "Colours".

Can we have a photo and some background of the carver?

Yes.

...see Artists.

How expensive is native timber?
The market prices are between $2000 to over $3000 per cu meter for most of the timbers we use for carving.
Is it easy to obtain traditional timbers?
No.
What type of timber do you use?

TOTARA - mostly.
MAIRE - weapons.
RATA - weapons.
MATAI - for musical instruments.
RIMU - musical instruments.
KAURI - too expensive.

...see Resources "Tree/Wood Types".

Do we have to pay custom duties on our purchase?
Most works of art do not have customs duty. [Check local laws].
How can we verify that the taonga that we purchase actually exist?
We will provide you with a list of reputable law firms or any other person that you wish to act as a purchasing agent on your behalf.
Are the photographs that are displayed on your website protected by copyright?
Yes, the photographs are protected by copyright but we will consider the use or sale of these images if the use is appropriate.
Many of our most frequently asked questions you will have found the answers to above; if you have a query that has not been covered here... then Ask us your Question Here.