Story: Pounamu – jade or greenstone

Hei matau – necklace (2nd of 3)

Hei matau – necklace

The hei matau is a stylised form of a traditional Māori hook (matau). The term hei means an ornament for the neck.

Using this item

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference: I.002889

Permission of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Basil Keane, 'Pounamu – jade or greenstone - Implements and adornment', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/7689/hei-matau-necklace (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Basil Keane, published 12 Jun 2006