This stunning yellow and white banded agate Toki was a joy to create, and it holds deep significance both for me and the friend who entrusted me with the stone. She discovered this agate in the Hinds River some time ago, sharing her find with me as a gift. I’ve finally crafted something worthy of…
I recently completed a Toki that stands out for its unique material and appearance. This piece is carved from the rind of a Tangiwai boulder. Over time, the rind of this boulder has undergone oxidation, turning it into a striking white, a rare transformation in Pounamu. Scattered throughout the white surface are dark spots of…
These two Toki were carved specifically to be presented to prize winners at a Early Childhood Council conference. Each Toki embodies the spirit of strength, wisdom, and leadership. The categories or the winners are Outstanding Achievement and Contribution to the ECC sector. In Māori culture, the Toki symbolises power, authority, and honour. Traditionally, it was…
This set, named Wairua Taonga, is crafted from the whitest Pounamu I could find, the rind of a Bowenite Tangiwai Pounamu. Working with this material was a unique challenge because the edge can be weaker, and I had to search diligently to find a solid section suitable for carving. The name Wairua Taonga means “Spiritual…
I recently completed a special Toki carved from Aroha Stone, a type of Pounamu that holds deep meaning and significance. This piece was created for another talented carver who generously gifted me this beautiful stone. As a token of appreciation and a way to return the aroha (love) he showed me, I crafted this Toki,…
I’m pleased to share one of my creations, a large Pounamu Toki carved from Kawakawa Pounamu sourced from the sacred Arahura River. This piece stands out not only for its size—an impressive 85mm in length—but also for its unique features and deep symbolism. I’ve named this piece Whakairo Tūmanako, which means “Carving Hope.” I chose…
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…
This is a Pounamu Toki crafted from Marsden Flower Jade, also known as Putiputi Pounamu. Standing at 9 cm high, this piece embodies the natural beauty and unique characteristics of New Zealand’s treasured greenstone. The Toki, traditionally a tool used by Māori, symbolizes strength, courage, and leadership. It is a powerful reminder of resilience and…
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…