I recently carved a special Toki from a stunning piece of Hapopo Pounamu, gifted to a good friend who embodies the essence of making connections with others. The stone is a bright green with darker swirls, showcasing the natural beauty of Hapopo Pounamu. This Toki is 6cm in length and features two koru carved into…
This piece is named Kōuma Whānau, a fitting name for such a deeply significant taonga. The Kōuma (anchor) traditionally symbolises stability, grounding, and strength, much like an anchor keeps a waka steady through changing tides. In this case, it represents the foundation of the family, its roots planted firmly in the past but holding strong…
This piece, now named Mātau Whakatipu, carries a deeply personal meaning for both the giver and the recipient. The name, chosen with great care, reflects growth and new beginnings, which are not only symbolised by the koru design but also deeply rooted in the story behind this taonga. The original Hei Matau, lost after being…
I recently completed this beautiful Koru pendant as a commissioned piece, crafted from Inanga Pounamu sourced from the sacred Arahura River. The stone itself carries the serene hues of pale green and soft yellows, interspersed with darker mineral inclusions that add depth and character to the piece. The gentle curves and flowing lines of the…
I recently had the pleasure of carving a special set of Pounamu pendants for a mother and her first daughter. These pieces, made from the gorgeous and translucent Inanga Pounamu sourced from the Arahura River, are a testament to the strength and unity of their family. This set is named Kotahitanga Koru, meaning “Unity Spiral,”…
I recently completed a special commission using Kawakawa Pounamu from the Arahura River. This set, which I have named Ngā Hononga, meaning “The Connections,” includes a Hei Matau and a Roimata, both carved from the same deep green, very translucent piece of Pounamu. The name Ngā Hononga was chosen to emphasize the profound bond between…
My latest creation, a 5cm high Toki carved from bright green Kahurangi Pounamu, named Kahurangi Te Ao Mārama. This piece is a true testament to the beauty and elegance of Pounamu, with its remarkable translucence that captures and reflects light in a mesmerizing way. The name “Kahurangi Te Ao Mārama” translates to “Greenstone of the…
I had the privilege of carving a special set of Pounamu, named Tatau Pounamu, commissioned by a father for himself and his children. “Tatau Pounamu” translates to “The Unbroken Bond,” symbolising the unbreakable connection between the father and his children, who live with their mother. Despite the distance, these pendants serve as a reminder of…
My latest creation, the Whānau Tahi Toki (United Family Toki), is made from the unique and stunning Douglas Creek Pounamu. This piece, commissioned as a wedding gift, symbolizes the unity of two families coming together in love and harmony. Designed to be displayed as a sculpture, its intricate details and profound meaning make it a…
The koru is a powerful symbol in Maori culture, representing growth, new beginnings, and the unfurling fern frond. It’s a fitting image for a taonga pounamu (treasured greenstone) carving, a piece imbued with deep meaning and cultural significance. This piece is called ‘Koru Whanau’. This particular koru whanau carving, crafted from Marsden Kawakawa pounamu, is…