Description

The Laurie Williams Tui - Tiger Kahikatea & River Matai is a remarkable testament to expert craftsmanship and the beauty of New Zealand’s native tonewoods. Laurie Williams has built a distinguished reputation for sourcing and reclaiming ancient submersion woods—timbers that have rested beneath rivers for centuries, naturally aging to develop extraordinary tonal characteristics. His instruments are sought after for their unique materials, meticulous construction, and exceptional sound.

This Tui model showcases some of the finest reclaimed woods available. The top is made from Tiger Kahikatea, a rare and visually striking tonewood that provides immediate responsiveness, crisp articulation, and a detailed, shimmering treble range. Paired with River Matai back and sides, the guitar delivers a balanced, resonant voice with rich warmth, clarity, and remarkable sustain. The River Totara neck contributes to the instrument’s stability and smooth playability, while the ebony fingerboard and bridge enhance definition and note separation.

Aesthetically, the attention to detail is stunning. The Rimu & Paua rosette adds an elegant touch, complemented by Paua purfling along the top, fingerboard, and headstock. The River Matai bindings provide a natural contrast, and the lower bout bevel ensures comfort for extended playing sessions. Finished in a high-gloss that highlights the intricate grain patterns of these ancient woods, the guitar is both visually and sonically captivating.

Equipped with Gotoh 510 tuning machines featuring Matai wood buttons, the instrument ensures precise tuning stability with a refined look. The EVO Gold frets offer smooth, long-lasting performance, and the 25.5” scale length, 1 3/4” nut width, and 2 1/4” bridge spacing make it an ideal choice for both fingerstyle players and strummers.

Weighing just 4 lbs 2 oz, this lightweight instrument is effortless to hold, yet its voice is anything but delicate. Protected by a Carbon Fiber Hoffee Flight Case, the Laurie Williams Tui - Tiger Kahikatea & River Matai is built to stand the test of time, offering a one-of-a-kind playing experience that brings history, craftsmanship, and exceptional tone together in perfect harmony.

Other specifications include:

Tiger Kahikatea Top
River Matai Back & Sides
River Totara Neck
Ebony Fingerboard & Bridge
Rimu & Paua Rosette
River Matai Bindings
Paua Top, Fingerboard & Headstock Purflings
Lower Bout Bevel
Gloss Finish
Paua Headstock Logo
Paua 12th Fret Inlay
Gotoh 510 Tuning Machines with Matai Buttons
EVO Gold Frets
25.5” Scale Length
1 3/4” Nut
2 1/4” Bridge Spacing
Carbon Fiber Hoffee Flight Case
4 lbs 2 oz