I recently had the pleasure of carving a special set of Pounamu pendants for a mother and her first daughter. These pieces, made from the gorgeous and translucent Inanga Pounamu sourced from the Arahura River, are a testament to the strength and unity of their family. This set is named Kotahitanga Koru, meaning “Unity Spiral,”…
I recently completed a special commission using Kawakawa Pounamu from the Arahura River. This set, which I have named Ngā Hononga, meaning “The Connections,” includes a Hei Matau and a Roimata, both carved from the same deep green, very translucent piece of Pounamu. The name Ngā Hononga was chosen to emphasize the profound bond between…
I’m pleased to share one of my creations, a large Pounamu Toki carved from Kawakawa Pounamu sourced from the sacred Arahura River. This piece stands out not only for its size—an impressive 85mm in length—but also for its unique features and deep symbolism. I’ve named this piece Whakairo Tūmanako, which means “Carving Hope.” I chose…
My latest creation, a 5cm high Toki carved from bright green Kahurangi Pounamu, named Kahurangi Te Ao Mārama. This piece is a true testament to the beauty and elegance of Pounamu, with its remarkable translucence that captures and reflects light in a mesmerizing way. The name “Kahurangi Te Ao Mārama” translates to “Greenstone of the…
I had the privilege of carving a special set of Pounamu, named Tatau Pounamu, commissioned by a father for himself and his children. “Tatau Pounamu” translates to “The Unbroken Bond,” symbolising the unbreakable connection between the father and his children, who live with their mother. Despite the distance, these pendants serve as a reminder of…
This is a Pounamu Toki crafted from Marsden Flower Jade, also known as Putiputi Pounamu. Standing at 9 cm high, this piece embodies the natural beauty and unique characteristics of New Zealand’s treasured greenstone. The Toki, traditionally a tool used by Māori, symbolizes strength, courage, and leadership. It is a powerful reminder of resilience and…
My latest creation, the Whānau Tahi Toki (United Family Toki), is made from the unique and stunning Douglas Creek Pounamu. This piece, commissioned as a wedding gift, symbolizes the unity of two families coming together in love and harmony. Designed to be displayed as a sculpture, its intricate details and profound meaning make it a…
“Te Mānu Kaha,” a beautifully carved Hei Matau, or fish hook, infused with the cultural essence of Aotearoa. The name “Te Mānu Kaha” translates to “The Strong Bird,” symbolizing strength, resilience, and the journey through life. Crafted from Kawakawa Pounamu sourced from South Westland, this piece stands out with its striking reddish-brown Totoweka coloring, which…
I’m excited to share the completion of a very special project: a set of Pounamu carvings for a cherished family. This journey began a few years ago with a Toki for the husband and son. Recently, I had the honor of completing the set with these Roimata for the wife and daughter, using the same…
Here is “Te Waka,” a beautiful Pounamu Hei Matau. This piece is crafted from exquisite Kawakawa Pounamu, sourced from the South Westland region. The Hei Matau is known for its distinctive shape and rich cultural significance in Māori tradition. “Te Waka” is made from Kawakawa Pounamu, renowned for its striking green color. This particular stone…
