This Purerehua is a Maori made musical instrument. The carver is of Ngati Kahungungu/ Tu Wharetoa descent, and a graduate of the NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, Rotorua.
The timber it is made of is native totara, and the carving is a symbol of the wind.
The purerehua makes its sound from being swung vigorously above your head. You first hang the purerehua downwards and twirl it, then quickly swing it above your head. The sound will vary depending on how fast you twirl it, but generally speaking it is the sound of a bird's wings, or of insects.
Maori traditionally used the Purerehua to call the rains to wet their crops, to bring lizards out of hiding ( the lizards mistakenly thinking there were lots of insects nearby), and at tangi (funerals), as well as to simply make sound.
The Purerehua is also called a Rangorango because the buzzing sound it makes is similar to that of the blowfly (Rango).
In other countries it might be called a bullroarer.
This purerehua is carved on both sides. It hangs from a strong cord that is decorated with feathers at the end. It measures approximately 16cm x 6cm (6 3/8' x 2 3/8').
Please note that the colour of the feathers may differ from that shown in the photo.
Proudly Maori made in New Zealand, and shipped worldwide.
