This taonga is a Kōuma, a breastplate carved from Kokopu Pounamu. Measuring 6cm wide and 4cm high, it carries deep significance as a symbol of inner strength, resilience, and guardianship. Resting against the chest, the Kōuma protects the wearer, much like the sternum shields the heart. Kokopu Pounamu is named for its resemblance to the…
I’ve recently carved this Pounamu Kōuma, a 70mm wide breastplate made from Kahotea Pounamu. This stone carries deep green tones emerging through a base of white-flecked green, with hints of warm orange adding to its uniqueness. The kōuma is secured with a black 4-braid cord on a ringbolt lashing, giving it strength and presence. The…
This taonga set, named Tūhono, symbolises deep connection. The name means to join or link together, reflecting the unbreakable bond between these two pieces, carved from the same slice of dark grey Uri Uri Pakohe. By sharing the same origins, these taonga will always be connected, whether worn by two people or held as a…
This Tapatoru is something special. My daughter carved it, from selecting the stone to shaping, sanding, and polishing—doing as much of the work as she could. My role was simply to guide her when needed, but this piece is hers, through and through. The triangular Tapatoru shape is a strong and balanced form, often symbolising…
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…
I’m excited to share a special Taonga Pounamu I’ve carved for the New Zealand Canoe Polo Association (NZCPA). This taonga is for all the players, past, present and future who have, or will represent the Association at international events all over the world. Our teams are called The Paddle Blacks and The Paddle Ferns (our senior teams) and U21 Paddle Blacks and U21 Paddle Ferns (for our age group…
