Maori carvings have a history that goes back many centuries. Nowadays manufacturers in India and China mass-produce items resembling hei matau which are sold on the New Zealand tourist market and around the world. These practices have attracted criticism for their appropriation of Maori designs.

So don't buy plastic hooks from a tourist trap or beach gift shop when genuine Hei-Matau can be easily purchased here. :)

(Hei-Matau with red Jade stone)