Hei Matau & Mangapore legacy designs to honour the life and work of Peter Minturn

Hei Matau & Mangapore designs - A Minturn legacy of family, craft, and connection.

Hei Matau and Mangapore inspired ring designs are legacy pieces, created in honour of Peter Minturn MNZM, Master Goldsmith. Peter was widely respected for his craftsmanship, thoughtful and his respectful interpretations of Māori design — work that was always guided by admiration for its depth and meaning.

In the early 70's Peter had been commissioned by Queen Dame Te Atairangikaahu to make jewellery for her to gift to Queen Elizabeth II. The Māori Queen had previously bestowed Dad with her blessings with his loving translations of the Māori arts & carvings. His working relationship & connection to Her Majesty Te Atairangikaahu remained very proud moments for Peter and were fondly remembered and shared on many occasions.

At the heart of Māori designs are the core values of whānau and whakapapa, expressed through forms that speak of connection, continuity, and belonging. They are contemporary interpretations, created with humility, care and acknowledgement of the cultural significance from which they draw inspiration.

A Life Inspired by Māori Design

Throughout his career, Peter approached Māori-inspired design with the deepest respect in his jewellery. He understood that Māori design is never purely decorative — it is the living embodiment of ancestry that tells a story of identity and place. This understanding shaped both his work and his legacy as a Designer Goldsmith of which we have continued that work with respect, to continue of a story of love, connection and continuity.

The Meaning Within the Designs

Hei Matau is traditionally associated with strength, guidance, and safe passage. In ring form, it becomes a symbol of protection and enduring connection.

Peter loved meeting people and made friends effortlessly. Many of his clients became lifelong friends. He gave and shared his knowledge and friendship selflessly. He travelled extensively and was naturally interested in different cultures and the ways of others. He was a man of many talents and areas of knowledge - a real Renaissance Man.

Mangapore design speaks to movement and interconnection, reflecting whakapapa — the layers of lineage and lived experience that link generations together.

Today Minturn Jewellery continues to be guided by Peters' approach to jewellery. "The Minturn way" is integral to our understanding jewellery and design, identity and heritage that shapes our daily life. Peters' granddaughter continues in his footsteps, as she nears the completion of her apprenticeship as a goldsmith jeweller.

Mangapore Legacy ring 2

Hei Matau Legacy ring 1

Minturn Legacy rings

Mangapore & Hei Matau Māori inspired designs created out of respect, legacy and memories.

Honouring Peter’s Legacy

We look to honour Peter’s life’s work and the values he carried as a maker and goldsmith: in craftsmanship, respect, and a deep appreciation for storytelling.

Hei Matau and Mangapore are more than pieces of jewellery — they directly tie into the concept of jewellery "being with you" these designs are not just accessories; they are an expression of ideas that naturally integrate with and compliments a story of legacy, remembrance, and connection across generations.

Kia ora