Katoua. Cleaving club. This is a single component made completely from a wood type that is dark brown in colour. The two ends of this katoua contrast each other in shape and form and are both utilized for combat or performance in Niuean culture. One end portrays a cylindrical section followed by a collar and then a cone-like form finished with a point. There are few splinters present upon the point with missing fragments showing a light brown wood colour in contrast to its dark brown surface. The mid section of the katoua changes in depth showing two flat surfaces. The opposite of the end has been carved out to form a blade with three points where a centre ridge-line begins from the mid-section towards the extended and curved point. Its surface texture is smooth, showing some slight polish and presence of bore. Katoua are a type of weapon used in war in former times. The blade part would be used to slash one's opponent and the pointed shaft could be used to pierce. Today, it is common to see the katoua being used in cultural dances such as the takalo (war dance) and the meke (drum dance).