Post #96992 by OnaTiki on Fri, Jun 18, 2004 12:18 AM

We first met up with Gecko and Tiki Kate (who happened to be on Oahu at the same time as us) at La Mariana for cocktails. We had lots of fun, laughs and good drinks.

Gecko was kind enough to invite us all up to see his home and work space. Man what a view!

Upon arrival you immediately see where the magic happens.

Gecko's outdoor work space.

Gecko invited us into his home for some libations. OH MY GODS! Tiki Gods!! Everywhere!

This is just the entry. Amazing! So much to look at.

Some of his mugs and beautiful artwork.

Us on the couch relaxing, enjoying our surroundings and talking story.

Back outside for some carving tips.

We all got a lesson. Check out the view!

And then he introduced us to "Da Big Puka"

"Da Big Puka" is Gecko's second drum based tiki. His first being "Exotica" that he gave to Martin Denny.

We all posed with "Da Big Puka"

Tiki Kate, Gecko & Moki

Gecko & OnaTiki

This is Shorty, Gecko's assistant. She makes sure that all wood chips are removed from the carving area and disposed of properly in the front yard.

Our trip was fun. We learned alot. Gecko was a gracious host and very nice guy. If you get a chance to visit him, I highly recommend it.

Oh yeah.....by the way.
"Da Big Puka" arrived today. Safe and sound. It now has a new home in San Diego. Thanks to Gecko for letting us be the first mainlanders to have a drum based style tiki. It will always be treasured.

Here it is in it's new home.

[ Edited by: OnaTiki on 2004-06-18 00:22 ]