HISTORY & ORIGINS
Pounamu has shaped the history of Aotearoa New Zealand for centuries. From its role in ancient Māori trade and warfare to its place as a symbol of identity and mana, the story of pounamu is inseparable from the story of this land. These guides trace where pounamu comes from, how it has been used across time, and where it can still be found today.
Trace the history of pounamu from its role in ancient Māori culture and trade routes through to the landmark Ngāi Tahu Settlement of 1997.
Discover the regions of Aotearoa where pounamu is found — from the rivers of the Southern Alps to the wild West Coast beaches of Te Wai Pounamu.
A practical guide to searching for pounamu in rivers and along the coast — what to look for, where to search, and how to do it responsibly.
Find out which West Coast beaches are best for spotting pounamu, what raw greenstone looks like, and what the rules are around collecting it.
Looking for authentic pounamu?
Browse our curated directory of carvers, galleries, and retailers across New Zealand.
