The MANAIA carving meaning is that of a spiritual guardian. It's form is usually made up of the head of a bird, the body of a man, and the tail of a fish.
This represents the relationship and balance between sky (the bird), earth (the man), and sea (fish).
MAORI believe the Manaia looks after the spirit of the individual wearing it, and helps to guide the spirit to its final resting place upon death.
That is why the Manaia is seen as a guardian angel.
