Te Whakapono Tūturu

Te Whakapono Tūturu means “Enduring Faith”. This six-centimetre pounamu cross was commissioned by someone whose life changed dramatically after a serious accident. During a long recovery, faith became an important part of moving forward, and together we developed a design that reflected that journey. The finished taonga is intended to be worn every day, serving as a reminder of where they have been, where they are going, and the faith that continues to guide them. It is also intended to become a family heirloom, to be passed on to the next generation.

The design evolved over a number of conversations. We started with the idea of an open Christian cross and gradually refined it into something that would work both structurally and aesthetically in pounamu. The final design has a broad, substantial form with a flared top to accommodate a traditional ring-bolt lashing. At the centre, where the arms of the cross meet, is a three-dimensional woven pattern that adds depth while symbolising the interconnected nature of faith, life and family.

The cross is carved from a beautiful Tasman stone with soft, pale green colouring that has an almost creamy appearance. When light shines through it, the translucency reveals the depth of the stone and highlights the carved weave at its centre. It is finished with a black ring-bolt lashing that complements the clean lines of the design without distracting from the pounamu itself.

Pounamu has long been treasured as a material that carries meaning, connection and story. Every taonga becomes part of the life of the person who wears it, gathering memories and significance over time. In this case, the cross represents faith, healing, perseverance and the hope of passing those values on through generations.

This commission was a reminder that some of the most meaningful taonga come from working closely with the person who will wear them. Taking an idea and shaping it together into something unique is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do, especially when the finished piece will accompany someone through the next chapter of their life.