This Hei Matau is a Pounamu taonga carved from stunning serpentine Pounamu sourced from the West Coast near Hokitika. At 35mm high, it has a solid, sculptural presence, with enough thickness to carve both sides with flowing curves, free of flat spots. The design reflects the natural movement of the stone, creating a smooth, tactile…
On a remote beach near Hokitika, I discovered a pebble of Tangiwai Pounamu nestled among countless other kōhatu. Its unique translucence and subtle patterns caught my eye, so I brought it back to my workshop. For nearly a year, it sat on my workbench, patiently waiting for its final form to reveal itself. In time,…
I recently had the privilege to carve two Pounamu crosses on commission, one measuring 4cm and the other 6cm, both crafted from vibrant green Nephrite Jade. These crosses hold deep personal significance for the recipient, symbolising strength, faith, and resilience. Creating crosses from Pounamu is a powerful experience. Pounamu, or New Zealand greenstone, is treasured…
This is a 40mm Porohita, which I’ve named Marama Awhi – meaning “Embrace of the Moon.” This piece is inspired by the peaceful beauty of the moon as it peeks through clouds, symbolising calm, balance, and connection with the natural world. Carved from deep green Pounamu, the stone has stunning pale green patches and swirling…
I recently completed a very special taonga for my wife – a 5cm long Roimata, crafted from Aroha Stone. This piece holds deep significance not only because of the stone but because of the connection it symbolises. The Aroha Stone I used features stunning shades of deep purples and pinks through to whites, capturing the…
This 7cm Niho Pounamu taonga holds a deeply personal story. It was commissioned by a husband for his wife, who is courageously undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer. He sent me several large Pounamu cobbles, and from these, we carefully selected a rich, deep forest green stone with gorgeous light patterning. The color and patterns in…
I have just completed a special commission for a 45mm disc (porohita) with a koru carved into the front. This piece was crafted from bright green, highly translucent Kahurangi Pounamu, a stone that embodies clarity and vitality. The vivid green hues and translucency of the stone give it a sense of depth and life, making…
I recently completed a commission for a 6cm cross carved from Kawakawa Pounamu. Kawakawa Pounamu is known for its deep green hues and rich, natural patterns that carry a sense of connection to the land and history of Aotearoa. The cross shape holds significant meaning for many, symbolising faith, strength, and guidance. It’s a shape…
I recently completed a special commission for a Toki carved from Kawakawa Pounamu, sourced from the Hokitika area. This piece measures 8cm in length and carries deep cultural significance for its wearer, a man of Samoan heritage who has made New Zealand his home. The design of the Toki was carefully crafted to weave together…
Pounamu, or greenstone, is a taonga (treasure) in Māori culture, revered for its beauty and deep connection to the natural world. Today, I’m thrilled to share a unique piece – a pounamu tapatoru I crafted from totoweka, a rare and captivating type of pounamu found in the South Westland region of New Zealand. Totoweka is…