James Davidson

Kia ora, my name is James. This is my pounamu journey…

I was born and raised in Akaroa. When I was 11, my parents took me to Hokitika on the West Coast of the South Island—this is where my love for pounamu was cemented. I was intrigued by this native stone.

I started searching for pounamu and would pop into a local store asking, “Is this it?” Always met with a “no”! After a while, the shop owner asked if I’d like to start polishing stones for him, and as an enthusiastic young man, I jumped at the opportunity. I was hooked. I started carving in his studio and selling pieces through his shop.

Fast forward a few years—I had a studio in Akaroa for 3 years, starting from the age of 13.

I now live in Christchurch and carve part-time in my self-built studio. Carving is my passion. I’m forever learning.