This beautifully and extensively carved Maori walking ( and talking) stick is called a Tokotoko (pronounced To as in "tore" and ko as the "co" in "cork"). Some Maori walking sticks have a handle and some don't - this is one with a large, sturdy handle.

In Maori tradition, the Tokotoko (a ceremonial carved walking stick) is a symbol of the authority and the status of a speaker on the Maori marae (meeting ground), and it tells of the history from which that authority comes. The carving may represent an ancestor or a legend.

I have fond memories of seeing great Maori orators swinging their tokotoko about to make a point in their speech.

This carved Tokotoko is embellished with two carved tiki faces, their eyes inlaid with New Zealand paua (abalone) shell.

Below the tiki faces the walking stick is further carved in a spiralling line two-thirds of the way down the stick.

The walking stick is made out of sustainly harvested Tulip Wood, a light but very strong hardwood, and is stained a traditional brown colour. It is approximately 92cm (36 1/4") long, handcarved, with a rubber foot. The handle is approximately 17cm (6 3/4") long.

Enjoy this fine piece of Maori carving, as a decorative item or gentle support. It should not replace an orthopaedic walking stick.

Here's what one customer said about his tokotoko: " Have just received today my walking stick. It is absolutely fantastic, thanks for the very quick service ( I am still waiting for stuff I ordered in England at the same time as your stick to turn up). I would recommend you to anybody and will keep an eye on your site so I can buy off you again. Many thanks."

Footnote: That stick was subsequently used to fend off a Rottweiler that was trying to attack his much smaller dog. Whilst the stick did break during the epic battle, the Rotty came off second best, the little dog's life was saved, and Ray came back to buy another stick in March 2010.