This sculpture marks the 150-year anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi, which was signed between the British Crown and some Maori chiefs on 6 February 1840. The back-to-back figures indicate the partnership of the Treaty – the figure holding the quill represents Europeans, while the figure holding an adze (axe) symbolises Maori. Both figures are part of each other, reflecting the union of peoples. 

The piece was made by master-carver Rangi Hetet in the Northland style, in reference to the area in which the Treaty was signed. Hetet used totara timber, which has long been prized by Maori carvers for its durability and for the ease with which it can be split and shaped. The sculpture was presented to Queen Elizabeth II by the People of Waikawa Marae during her visit to New Zealand in 1990.