Tools predominantly made to order - Available stock will be listed individually
River Totara refers to Totara wood (podocarpus totara), a native tree of New Zealand, that has been preserved for centuries in a riverbed. During its prolonged submersion, the timber develops unique colours through out its grain due to mineral absorption in a natural process called water colouring. Totara often features unique fiddlebacks and curls and the colours vary by the timbers age and length of preservation. From deep dark browns and gold to ashy blues and and reds, theres no end to the variation, each piece is truly one of a kind.
Generally, the darker the timber the older and longer it has been preserved with the oldest examples being around 10,000 years old.
Highly prized for its strength, durability and historical significance, River Totara is an incredibly rare and valuable material used in fine woodworking, often to create heirloom quality items and art pieces. Its connection to New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage makes it especially meaningful in high end craftsmanship
