Guardian figures from the natural world are one of the obvious links that cultures worldwide have in common. Maori recognise universal ones such as dolphins etc then there are family ones and the last group is the personal ones. We know these when we realise that just thinking about them makes us feel good and seeing them or wearing their likeness reminds us that we are never alone.

The most enigmatic figure from Maori traditions is the Tiki. Its meanings are lost in history but Tiki was the first man and these figures have a universal appeal.