Kokopu Porohita

I’ve recently carved this Kokopu Pounamu Porohita, a 60mm circular pendant with an incredible speckled pattern that gives this stone its name. Kokopu Pounamu is named after the native freshwater fish of Aotearoa, known for their distinctive spots. This type of Pounamu often carries earthy green and brown tones with unique markings, making every piece one of a kind.

This pendant features a three-hole ringbolt lashing, secured with a Harakeke (flax) coloured cord using a 4-braid technique. The colour complements the stone, reinforcing its deep connection to the whenua. Kokopu Pounamu is associated with protection, strength, and adaptability—qualities reflected in the fish that move through the rivers of Aotearoa. It carries a deep connection to the land and water, making it a fitting taonga for those who value nature, resilience, and their place within their environment.

The Porohita is a shape of great significance, representing unity, wholeness, and the cycles of life. It embodies the idea of connection—whether that’s to whānau, whakapapa, or the natural world. The circular form has no beginning or end, reinforcing the values of balance and eternity.