PERSONAL PROFILE:

Name: Anthony (Tony) Paekau

Business Name: Te Akarau Designs

Iwi Affiliations: Tainui / Maniapoto

Telephone: (hm) 07 824 9339

(cell) 021 265 0964

Origins: My carving origins began with the Tainui Trust Carving School based in Ngaruawahia. Following a 12 month induction course,

I was fortunate to secure a place with a unique crew of contemporary and traditional carvers with a project that took just over a period of 10 years to complete.

Community based, the crew was responsible for carving and designing the Fairfield College Marae in Hamilton. From the onset, I was a trainee who later progressed to be one of a few tutors under the direction of head carver, Kereti Rautangata.

I'd like to make mention that I have adopted my contemporary artistic flair, based on that marae project.

Mediums Wood Carving, Bone Carving, Wood Burning, Tattoo and Moko Designs, Logo, Clothing Spreads, Wood Turning, General Sculptures (Abstract/Contemporary/Traditional).

In particular, Wood Carving: I generally design all of my own pieces, custom made and hand crafted for the individual. Alternatively, I am able to carve to specification.

Types of taonga include: 21st Keys, Trophies, Weaponry, Wall Hangings, Gifts, Furniture, Jewellery/Glory Boxes, Picture & Mirror Frames

Ambition: To succeed as a self employed artist in a specialist profession that I enjoy doing. I invite you to view my taonga by clicking on the various buttons available on this web page for browse.