Discover New Zealand Pounamu
A respectful guide to Aotearoa's treasured greenstone, its meaning, history, and how to recognise authentic pounamu.
Learn About Pounamu
What is Pounamu
An introduction to New Zealand greenstone, its origins, and significance.
Pounamu Meaning & Designs
Understanding traditional forms and their symbolic meanings.
History of Pounamu in Aotearoa
Types of Pounamu
Can Anyone Wear Pounamu?
Find Carvers, Galleries & Shops
ShopHoneys Greenstone
Henderson-Massey, Auckland
Māori-owned whānau business offering genuine South Island pounamu carved by New Zealand carvers, from traditional toki and koru to contemporary designs.
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CarverGeoff Williams
Golden Bay, Tasman
Golden Bay carver working West Coast pounamu into traditional Māori and contemporary designs at his Onekaka Arts studio, alongside paua and carnelian pieces.
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GalleryThe Stone Studio
Gisborne, Tairāwhiti
Family carving studio handcrafting nephrite jade taonga since 1997, with a long workshop window where visitors can watch the carvers at work.
View ListingMeet the People Behind the Pounamu
Antoinette of Your PRANA: Carving Pounamu in Te Tai Tokerau
"My job is partly to carve it, but also to pay attention to what is already there."
A Kerikeri carver on working with pounamu far from the rivers it comes from, reading the character of each stone, and why the story behind a taonga matters as much as the stone.
Read the storyFind Pounamu Near You
Explore Pounamu by Region
North Island
South Island
Respecting Pounamu as a Taonga
Pounamu is more than a stone, it is a taonga with deep cultural significance in Māori tradition.
PounamuGuide exists to share knowledge respectfully, highlight authentic sources, and acknowledge the cultural heritage connected to New Zealand greenstone. We aim to present information accurately and encourage visitors to engage thoughtfully with pounamu, its stories, and the people connected to it.