Te Wahi Pounamu - The Place of Pounamu

Learn about the history of Pounamu and where it was discovered on the South Island of New Zealand - Te Waipounamu.


This semi-precious stone is only found in the South Island, and most often in the rivers of the West Coast.


Discover more about this taonga and where it has been found in our video series below.

Moko Pounamu Knowledge Library

May 5, 2026
Anyone who purchases a product from Moko Pounamu and spends $100 or more online or in-store before May 11 goes into the draw to win a beautiful set of a silver and pounamu pendant and stud earrings.
By Louise Wedlake May 3, 2026
According to tradition, pounamu was born from Papatūānuku. Her tears of sorrow and joy flowed into the rivers of Te Waipounamu (the South Island) after her separation from Ranginui (the Sky Father). These tears crystalised into pounamu, imbuing the stone with her mauri (life force) and mana (spiritual power).