The World Of Pounamu

Discover the Beauty, Significance, and Legacy of Pounamu

This section of our site is dedicated to sharing the rich cultural heritage, significance, and beauty of Pounamu, also referred to as greenstone.


We intend it to serve as a knowledge library to help understand the importance of this taonga in Te Ao Māori and its enduring legacy in Aotearoa (New Zealand).


Tangiwai stone aka Bowenite carved as a Tiki
December 18, 2025
Discover the remarkable 1840s attempt to export pounamu overseas. A true story of Ngāi Tahu knowledge, early trade, and New Zealand’s first mineral export.
three pillars in the Moko Pounamu showroom
By Louise Wedlake November 20, 2025
We believe that gifting pounamu is a profound act, one that deserves to be supported by deep knowledge, genuine care, and absolute integrity. This belief is the foundation of our business, which is built on three core pillars that guide every interaction, both in our Christchurch shop and across the globe.
Greenstone double koru design
By Louise Wedlake November 18, 2025
Discover how the koru connects nature, whakapapa and balance. Explore the living spiral of pounamu and the timeless symbolism it holds in Māori culture.
A gift wrapped in brown paper and tied with a gold ribbon
By Louise Wedlake November 3, 2025
The festive season is nearly here, and at Moko Pounamu we believe the thought and care put into a gift extends to how it’s presented. Our range of packaging options ensures your pounamu taonga is gifted in a way that honours its significance and reflects the spirit of giving.
New born baby sleeping
By Louise Wedlake October 10, 2025
The arrival of a pēpi (baby) ignites any whānau with joy and a sense of connection. As we gather for their naming, tohi (dedication), or baptism, we seek taonga that embody our hopes and anchor them to their whakapapa.
Owen Mapp's design notebook with an image of a circular whalebone carving design.
By Louise Wedlake September 30, 2025
Owen Mapp is a highly regarded bone carver from Aotearoa New Zealand. At Moko Pounamu we are privileged to have some of Owen’s collection of pieces for sale in our retail shop and online. We welcome anyone who would like to come in to view the collection in person.
Celebrating Maori Langugage Week
By Louise Wedlake September 2, 2025
The theme of this year’s celebration is 'Ake Ake Ake - A forever language' - marking the the 50th anniversary of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week).
A green pounamu toki pendant sitting inside a black gift box.
By Louise Wedlake August 22, 2025
Gifting pounamu for Father’s Day is more than just giving a beautiful accessory - it’s offering a piece of Aotearoa’s heritage and a symbol of deep respect and affection.
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