Pounamu in Auckland
The Auckland region, known in te reo Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau, is New Zealand’s largest city and a vibrant centre of Māori culture, art, and contemporary design. With strong connections to many iwi, Auckland plays an important role in showcasing pounamu (greenstone) carving and jewellery.
While pounamu is not naturally found in the North Island, it has been widely traded and treasured across Aotearoa for generations as a sacred taonga. In Auckland, it holds deep cultural significance and is commonly crafted into jewellery and carvings that reflect identity, whakapapa, and personal meaning.
Today, Auckland is home to numerous pounamu artists, Māori galleries, and greenstone jewellery stores. Visitors can explore a variety of authentic pounamu pieces, often made from South Island stone, and in some cases experience carving demonstrations or connect directly with local artists.
Pounamu Carvers, Galleries & Shops in Auckland
The Auckland region is a vibrant hub for pounamu (greenstone) carving, jewellery, and contemporary Māori artistry. While pounamu is sourced from the South Island, Auckland is home to a diverse community of skilled Māori carvers, artists, and galleries showcasing authentic greenstone taonga.
Across areas such as the central city, Ponsonby, and Parnell, visitors can find a wide range of pounamu jewellery stores, carving studios, and Māori art galleries. These spaces feature both traditional and modern designs, with many artists creating handcrafted pieces that reflect cultural identity, storytelling, and connection to whakapapa.
Jade Pebble
Location: Whau, Auckland
Description: Auckland-based jade artist creating elegant pounamu jewellery and minimalist greenstone taonga handcrafted with precision and respect for tradition.
Christopher Mitch
Location: Waitematā, Auckland
Description: Auckland jade carver specialising in bespoke pounamu jewellery and contemporary Māori designs, offering handcrafted pieces with cultural integrity.
Te Rito Maori Arts
Location: Waitematā, Auckland
Description: Te Rito Pounamu offers handcrafted pounamu jewellery and authentic New Zealand greenstone carvings, celebrating Māori artistry and West Coast jade traditions.
Sands Carving Studio
Location: Hamilton
Description: At Sands Carving Studio, we take great pride in creating pieces that are treasured and appreciated for generations.
Pounamu Resources
Explore authentic greenstone carvers, galleries and shops across New Zealand.