Māia, Toki, Niho: Black Ferns carry new taonga to England

When the Black Ferns stepped into a new era under Head Coach Whitney Hansen, something at the heart of the team’s identity was missing.  

Historically, the taiaha Hiahia had travelled with the Black Ferns and there were investigations of bringing it back into the environment but unfortunately it was discovered it had been damaged. That moment sparked a journey to find new taonga that could carry the identity, history, mana (strength) and mauri (life force) of the Black Ferns as they write the next chapter of their story.  

Now, wherever the Black Ferns go, their taonga go too. Together, they carry the mauri of the team and connect those who have worn the jersey before, who wear it today and those still to come.

TAIAHA

Pronunciation: tie-ah-ha 

A taiaha is a traditional Māori long-handled wooden weapon, with a pointed, carved head at one end and a broad, flat striking blade at the other. Used in close combat and in the Māori martial art of mau rākau, the taiaha is also a symbol of mana, leadership and cultural identity.  

This week in England, the Black Ferns named the team’s taonga Māia. In te reo Māori, Māia means brave, courageous and confident.  

Māia, carved by Rei Mihaere, is awarded to the Defender of the Week, honouring the player who has shown courage, strength and commitment in defence. The recipient is entrusted with carrying Māia onto the field at the next Test, representing the courage and collective strength of the whole team. 

When the Black Ferns run out against England on Sunday 3.00am NZT, keep your eyes on winger Mererangi Paul. She will be the one bringing Māia out.

TOKI

Pronunciation: Toh-kee 

A toki is a traditional Māori adze or axe, typically made from carved and polished stone used for cutting, carving and shaping wood. Toki were also worn as ceremonial pendants, symbolising strength, courage, authority and leadership. 

The Black Ferns toki has a story all of its own. It was carved from a mamaku tree that was felled during a lightning storm, it is a symbol of strength, resilience and power. A powerful reminder that even after a storm, strength and beauty can emerge. 

Created by artist David Burke, whose work has become part of the Black Ferns and New Zealand Rugby whānau, the toki is awarded to the Attacker of the Week, recognising the player who brings energy, courage and electric attack to the field.

NIHO

Pronunciation: Nee-hoh 

Niho means tooth, fang or tusk. In Māori carving, a niho can refer to a tooth-shaped pendant carved from pounamu (greenstone), symbolising strength, protection and a connection to the natural world. 

The Black Ferns niho, is a large, tooth-shaped pounamu gifted to the team by Black Ferns Assistant Coach Simon Kneebone and his whānau. It stands for strength, connection and selfless service. 

The niho is worn by a member of the Tāhuhu (the name given to the non-playing players). In te reo Māori, Tāhuhu refers to the ridgepole of a house, symbolising the backbone and strength that holds everything together. 

This taonga recognises those who put the team first, selflessly serving off the field so their teammates can achieve greatness on it. 

Three taonga, one team and on Sunday morning September 27th NZT, Māia leads the Black Ferns out against England.