Pounamu in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty, located on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is a region rich in Māori culture, coastal landscapes, and traditional arts. Known in te reo Māori as Te Moana-a-Toi, the region has deep historical connections to many iwi and is a vibrant centre for Māori carving and contemporary pounamu (greenstone) jewellery.

While pounamu is not naturally found in the North Island, it has been highly valued and traded throughout Aotearoa for centuries as a sacred taonga (treasure). In the Bay of Plenty, pounamu holds strong cultural and artistic significance, often used in carved jewellery, pendants, and artworks that represent identity, connection, and whakapapa.

Today, the Bay of Plenty is home to a growing number of pounamu carvers, Māori artists, and greenstone jewellery galleries. In cities and towns such as Tauranga, Rotorua, Whakatāne, and Ōpōtiki, visitors can discover authentic pounamu jewellery stores, Māori carving studios, and artisan workshops showcasing both traditional and contemporary designs. Many artists work with South Island pounamu, transforming it into handcrafted pieces inspired by local stories, culture, and natural landscapes.

Visitors to the region can explore pounamu galleries in the Bay of Plenty, watch live carving demonstrations, or take part in carving experiences to create their own greenstone pendant. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the cultural meaning of pounamu and the skill involved in traditional Māori carving techniques.