Pounamu Blog

  • Rongo Whenua

    When I received a commission request from a gentleman in France, I knew this project would be special. He specifically chose a slice of inanga pounamu for its unique coloring and contrasting black features. The result is a beautiful pendant named Rongo Whenua, which means “Peaceful Land.” This pendant embodies protection, renewal, and a deep…

  • Inanga Toki

    This exquisite 5 cm toki pendant, crafted from inanga pounamu, captures the essence of whitebait swimming up the awa (river) in their annual migration. The toki’s classic colouring, with its subtle variations in silver and grey, perfectly mimics the appearance of whitebait as they navigate the freshwater currents. The toki’s smooth, polished surface reflects the…

  • Toki Tū

    The toki, a traditional Māori adze, holds a significant place in Aotearoa’s history. More than just a tool, the toki was essential to Māori life pre-colonization, used for shaping wood for everything from waka (canoes) to whare (houses). It symbolized strength, authority, and connection to ancestors and the land. I am honored to present “Toki…

  • Maramatanga Ruru

    The ruru, or morepork, holds a special place in the heart of Aotearoa’s natural world. As a nocturnal guardian, it embodies wisdom, intuition, and the mysteries of the night. This small but powerful bird is often associated with protection, guidance, and the ability to see through darkness – qualities embodied in the Māori concept of…

  • Whakairia Hei Tiki

    This special piece, my first ever hei tiki carving (Whakairia), holds deep meaning for me. Crafted from serpentine pounamu in a vibrant green with dramatic black dendrites, it stands at 11cm and hangs from a braided tan cord. But there’s something unique about this hei tiki. You’ll notice a visible flaw on the left side…

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    Aroha Kotahi

    This recent commission project held a special significance for me. It was a request for a pair of pounamu roimata (teardrop) pendants, one for a father and one for his son. The name I chose for this set, Aroha Kotahi, means “love as one” in Maori, perfectly reflecting the connection between them. The roimata design…

  • Kawakawa Toki Pounamu

    This beautiful pounamu toki was a recent commission piece I completed here at Campbell Carving. Measuring just 5cm in height, it’s a captivating blend of delicacy and strength. The pounamu itself is a stunning piece of kawakawa pounamu, sourced from the Arahura River on the South Island of New Zealand. Kawakawa pounamu is renowned for…