condensed discuss document expanded export feedback print share remove reset document_white enquire_white export_white report_white
discuss document export feedback print share gallery-landscape xml

Ngahau

human history
  • Other Name

    Kaufana

  • Description

    Ngahau. Bow. A ngahau (bow) is one of the most basic weapons and hunting implements in Tonga, it is also known as a kaufana. This ngahau has been carved from one block or branch of wood, most probably the toa (ironwood) tree. The surface area is smooth and it is medium brown in colour, it is a curved bow which would have been used for close distance shooting. The pull string is missing but there are slight indentations at either end to secure the pull string to.

    Ngahau can be used as a weapon in warfare, as well as a hunting in both land and sea.

  • Place
  • Accession Number
    1925.146
  • Accession Date
    06 Mar 1925
  • Other Id

    14377 (ethnology)

  • Department
bow, 1925.146, 14377, Cultural Permissions Apply

Images and documents

Images

Artefact

The development of the Auckland War Memorial Museum online collection is an ongoing process; updates, new images and records are added weekly. In some cases, records have yet to be confirmed by Museum staff, and there could be mistakes or omissions in the information provided.

The gift of curiosity

With unlimited free entry to all paid exhibitions, discounted event tickets and exclusive Member-only events, a Museum Membership is the gift that keeps on giving year-round.

SEE OPTIONS FROM $60

The gift of curiosity