Pounamu Blog

  • Wairua Manu

    I’m pleased to share this latest Pounamu piece, named Wairua Manu, which holds a special place in the ongoing journey of a whānau. This pendant is a new addition to a set that began a while back, originally carved for a couple on their wedding day. Made from the same block of Inanga Pounamu, this…

  • NZ Canoe Polo Kōuma/Breastplate

    I’m excited to share a special Taonga Pounamu I’ve carved for the New Zealand Canoe Polo Association (NZCPA). This taonga is for all the players, past, present and future who have, or will represent the Association at international events all over the world.  Our teams are called The Paddle Blacks and The Paddle Ferns (our senior teams) and U21 Paddle Blacks and U21 Paddle Ferns (for our age group…

  • Ōnewa Toki Whao

    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…

  • Kokopu Pounamu Niho

    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…

  • Te Koru o Te Whanau

    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…

  • Toki Mā

    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…

  • |

    Te Ao Aotea

    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…

  • |

    Toki Toa

    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…