Hand carved from genuine Hapopo Pounamu sourced from New Zealand’s West Coast, this Kete Basket pendant carries deep cultural meaning and craftsmanship. Inspired by the traditional woven kete, the carved cross-hatched texture reflects themes of gathering, nurturing, and the sharing of knowledge and abundance. Rich green tones with natural dark inclusions give the stone depth and character, making each piece entirely unique. The sculpted form and detailed carving create a strong tactile presence while maintaining a smooth, wearable finish. Designed as a meaningful taonga, this pendant honours tradition while offering a contemporary expression of connection, care, and everyday strength
Kapeu
features a softly curved lower edge, while the upper part can be straight or slightly convex. A single hole near the top allows it to be suspended from a cord and rest against the wearer’s chest. Traditionally crafted from pounamu, bone, or occasionally wood, the kapeu was a sign of high rank and status within Māori society. It embodied the mana (prestige and power) of the wearer and was likely reserved for chiefs and important individuals. The act of wearing a kapeu signified leadership, authority, and the ability to protect and provide for one’s people. Kapeu made from pounamu were sometimes used by traditional healers, believed to soothe the gums of teething infants.
Hapopo- Genuine West Coast Greenstone. It's colour ranges from medium green to a dark forest green with a unique mottled texture. The name originating from Kā Umu o Hapopo (Big Bay) which is in Poutini ki te toka (South Westland).
Hand Carved by Anaru Anderson
Ngai Tahu Trace Code TBA
Size 35mm long x 52mm wide x 4mm thick
This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.
