This is a Toki Whao carved from basalt, or Ōnewa, sourced from Banks Peninsula in Canterbury, South Island of New Zealand. This piece is 5cm long and showcases the dark grey hues of the basalt stone, which contrast beautifully with the tan lashing cord. The Toki Whao represents a traditional Māori chisel, a tool used…
This Niho pendant, crafted from Kokopu Pounamu from the Arahura River, measures 45mm in length. The stone, with its distinct speckled pattern reminiscent of the native Kokopu fish, captures the spirit of Aotearoa’s natural beauty. The deep greens and unique markings of Kokopu Pounamu make each piece truly one-of-a-kind, reflecting the environment from which it…
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 this beautiful Koru pendant as a commissioned piece, crafted from Inanga Pounamu sourced from the sacred Arahura River. The stone itself carries the serene hues of pale green and soft yellows, interspersed with darker mineral inclusions that add depth and character to the piece. The gentle curves and flowing lines of the…
This Tangiwaī Niho, named Kaha Mārie, is not just a piece of Pounamu; it carries the weight of memory, loss, and enduring strength. The story behind this commission is as powerful as the stone itself. Given to me as a polished cobble by a man who received it from his friends after his wife passed…
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…
I’m excited to introduce Te Ao Aotea, the first taonga I’ve carved from the rare and beautiful Aotea stone. This name, which translates to “The Aotea World,” was chosen to reflect both the circular shape of the pendant and the deep connection between the stone and the world. The circle, or porohita, is a powerful…
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’m excited to share the story behind a special commission piece, the Waka Hoi Pounamu. This pendant was crafted for a distinguished leader transitioning from their role in an organisation, symbolising their journey and the legacy they leave behind. The Waka Hoi Pounamu, resembling a waka (canoe) paddle, embodies the essence of leadership and direction….
