The Rei Niho is a symbolic representation of the traditional whale tooth pendants that were adorned by Māori chiefs and individuals of high rank in the early Māori society. Originally crafted from the scarce taonga whale species, these pendants later began to be intricately carved from materials like Pounamu to highlight the mana (power) of the Tohorā (whale). The form of the Rei Niho symbolizes the deep bond between humans and our surroundings, emphasizing the interdependence of all living beings. Over time, Rei Niho has come to embody the qualities of kaitiakitanga, which encompass guardianship, strength, perception, and leadership.