Whale Rider

This pou at Paparoa Point (north of Kaikoura) is of a man named Tūteurutira, who was a chief of Ngāi Tahu.

Stone statue of a stylized human figure. The figure has a large head with prominent facial features, including deep-set eyes and a pronounced mouth. On top of its head are three feather-like shapes, possibly representing a headdress or hair. The figure is standing with its legs apart, holding a short club or paddle across its lap with both hands. It wears a triangular loincloth adorned with three white triangle shapes. The statue is mounted on a tall rectangular pedestal, and the background is a cloudy, overcast sky. The overall style suggests it may be inspired by indigenous or tribal art.