Pua – To Bloom

This taonga is a 5cm pendant carved with soft flowing curves, rounded at the base and finished with a strong black lashing at the top. Its main feature is a small flower motif, inspired by Tongan design. The flower sits proudly on the stone, a reminder of the beauty and strength found in both nature and culture.

Pounamu holds a special place in Aotearoa as a taonga of connection, protection, and identity. Each piece carries its own mana, shaped not only by its patterns and colours, but also by the stories woven into it.

The flower design is central to this taonga. In Tongan culture, the heilala flower is a symbol of beauty, grace, and cultural pride. By pairing it with pounamu, this taonga symbolises the flourishing of life, heritage, and new beginnings. The Māori name Pua simply means “flower,” reflecting the heart of the design while keeping the kōrero grounded and meaningful.

Pua is a small but meaningful taonga, combining the timeless strength of pounamu with the elegance of Pacific heritage. It carries with it a sense of growth, respect, and connection—qualities to be held close and worn with pride.