Katoua

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. 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. A nail has been inserted just before the end of the point causing the wood to split. Its surface texture is smooth and shows some slight polish. 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).