Pounamu in Otago
Otago is one of New Zealand’s most visited regions, drawing visitors from around the world to its dramatic landscapes, alpine lakes, and the adventure capital of Queenstown. Alongside its natural wonders, Otago has a rich connection to pounamu (greenstone), both through its proximity to the South Island’s traditional jade sources and through the skilled carvers, galleries and shops that have made it a destination for authentic greenstone taonga.
For Ngāi Tahu, the iwi with kaitiakitanga (guardianship) over all South Island pounamu, Otago sits within their rohe (territory). The rivers and mountain ranges of the broader South Island have long provided the raw stone that carvers throughout Otago work with today. In towns like Queenstown and Arrowtown, visitors will find a range of authentic pounamu jewellery, carvings, and galleries offering pieces in both traditional and contemporary styles.
On this page you’ll find a selection of pounamu carvers, greenstone galleries and shops in Otago, where visitors can discover handcrafted pieces and learn about the cultural significance of this treasured New Zealand stone.
Pounamu Carvers, Galleries & Shops in Otago
Otago’s pounamu scene is centred around Queenstown and Arrowtown, with a growing number of studios, galleries and shops offering authentic New Zealand greenstone jewellery and carvings. Whether you’re looking for a traditional hei tiki, a contemporary pendant, or a sculptural piece, Otago’s artisans and retailers offer a genuine connection to this treasured taonga.
The Gift Centre
Location: Queenstown
Description: A family-owned business since 1976. Our connections, built up over 45 years, allow us to offer you one of the best selections of Pounamu Jade anywhere in the world.
Goldfields Jewellers
Location: Queenstown
Description: Queenstown jewellery destination with a strong focus on pounamu, combining traditional Māori designs with contemporary craftsmanship.
Arrowtown Stonework
Location: Arrowtown
Description: Popular tourist gallery with a wide selection of jade and other gemstones.
Moko Pounamu
Location: Christchurch
Description: Over 30 years of authentic pounamu jewellery. Christchurch-based gallery.
About Pounamu in Otago
Queenstown’s position as New Zealand’s premier visitor destination makes it one of the most accessible places in the country to find authentic pounamu. For many international visitors, purchasing a piece of greenstone in Queenstown is a meaningful part of their New Zealand experience, a tangible connection to Māori culture and the natural world of Aotearoa.
When shopping for pounamu in Otago, look for pieces carrying Ngāi Tahu authentication, the mark that guarantees genuine New Zealand origin and honours the cultural guardianship of the stone. Authentic pounamu should never be confused with imported jade or synthetic imitations, which are common in tourist areas throughout New Zealand.
To learn more about identifying genuine pounamu, visit our guide on how to tell if pounamu is real.
Pounamu Resources
Explore authentic greenstone carvers, galleries and shops across New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pounamu in Otago
Where can I buy authentic pounamu in Queenstown?
Queenstown has several trusted sources for authentic New Zealand pounamu including Goldfields Jewellers in the Queenstown Mall, Real Jade Co. on Beach Street, and The Gift Centre which stocks locally made Māori carvings and greenstone jewellery. Always look for Ngāi Tahu certified pieces to ensure genuine New Zealand origin.
Is the pounamu sold in Queenstown genuine?
Quality varies across Queenstown’s many souvenir and gift shops. To ensure you’re purchasing genuine New Zealand pounamu rather than imported jade or synthetic imitations, look for the Ngāi Tahu authentication mark and buy from specialist pounamu retailers or galleries rather than general souvenir shops.
Can I find pounamu carvers in Otago?
Yes. Queenstown and Arrowtown both have dedicated pounamu retailers where you can meet carvers, watch the carving process, and discuss custom or commissioned pieces. Real Jade Co. in Queenstown is particularly well known for its on site carving studio.
What is the significance of pounamu in Otago?
Otago sits within the rohe (territory) of Ngāi Tahu, the iwi who hold kaitiakitanga (guardianship) over all South Island pounamu. The region has a deep connection to greenstone through Māori trade routes that passed through the South Island for centuries, carrying pounamu from its West Coast sources to communities throughout Aotearoa.
How do I choose the right pounamu piece in Otago?
Choosing pounamu is a personal journey. Many people are drawn to a particular design for its meaning, the koru represents new beginnings, the hei tiki connects to ancestry, and the toki symbolises strength and determination. Visit our guide on how to choose a pounamu design for more guidance before you shop.