A Symbol of Life’s Continuous Cycle, Harmony & Renewal

Porowhita

The Porowhita pendant symbolises life’s endless journey. It honours harmony, personal growth, and the meaningful connections we share with each other and with the natural world.

Reflecting Nature’s Rhythms

Just as the Maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) guides us through times of growth, rest, and renewal, the Porowhita pendant symbolises life's infinite possibilities, harmony, and interconnectedness. Inspired by the continual renewal of wai (water) and the eternal presence of mauri (life force), wearing this taonga reminds us of our integral place within the natural world.

“He waka eke noa.”

We are all in this together - Maori Proverb

Harmony, Wholeness & Inner Strength

The Porowhita encourages balance and harmony within ourselves and our surroundings. Its form supports inner reflection, peace, and strength, fostering a profound sense of interconnectedness and unity.

“Delivery was quick; the company kept me informed daily. Proud to wear it, stylish and symbolic of harmony.” — Louise H. (Customer)

Cultural Origins and Māori Values

The Porowhita pendant is a contemporary design that draws deeply upon traditional Māori concepts and values. Its circular shape symbolises core Māori principles, including kotahitanga (unity), whanaungatanga (connectedness), and the eternal presence of mauri (life force). The Porowhita honours these enduring cultural values, representing life's continual cycle of renewal, growth, and harmony within the natural world.

Meaning, Occasion Ideas & Symbolism

When to Gift a Porowhita Pendant

New Beginnings
Celebrate milestones such as births, graduations, significant birthdays, or career transitions with a symbol of continuous growth and renewal.

Family & Whānau
Honour connections, unity, harmony, and intergenerational bonds. Perfect for whānau gatherings or family moments.

Personal Reflection
Ideal during periods of personal growth, self-care, or moments when inner harmony and balance matter most.

Friendship & Connection
Represent enduring relationships, interconnectedness, and shared journeys with close friends or loved ones.

“An absolutely perfect personalised piece. Exceeded expectations. Thank you.” — Leeann R. (Customer)

Carving the Porowhita (Circle)

Early Māori carvers patiently shaped pounamu discs by drilling central holes with a traditional cord drill called a tuwiri. Each piece was smoothed by hand using sandstone and polished with natural oils. Today, in our whānau workshop in Arrowtown, we blend traditional craftsmanship with modern diamond tools and precision drills. Each Porowhita pendant is meticulously shaped, sanded, polished, and finished with a hand-lashed adjustable binding, honouring our heritage and the skills passed down through generations.

Caring for your Porowhita pendant

Durability: pounamu is strong but may chip if dropped or knocked against hard surfaces—handle gently.

Safe Storage: store separately or wrapped softly to protect it from scratches or impacts.

Regular Wear: wearing your Porowhita enriches its colour and beauty through absorbing your skin’s natural oils. Cords naturally wear over time; we offer traditional rebinding services.

Cleaning & Nourishing: clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Occasionally nourish the stone’s surface with beeswax or natural oils (such as coconut oil). Avoid harsh chemicals.

Water Exposure & Cord Care: swimming or showering is safe for the stone. However, chlorinated or salt water can shorten cord life. Always rinse with fresh water afterward and dry gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Carved from pounamu, the Porowhita symbolises life’s infinite cycle, personal growth, inner harmony, and our connection with nature. It’s ideal for honouring significant milestones and reminding the wearer of life's boundless potential and continuous renewal.

This taonga (treasure) resonates with anyone embracing life’s journeys—men, women, and rangatahi (young people). It’s particularly meaningful for those celebrating new chapters, milestones, or seeking greater harmony and balance.

Your pendant arrives unblessed, allowing you the freedom to follow your own tikanga (custom). A blessing is the personal act of imparting spiritual or symbolic meaning to your taonga. (See guidance below for blessing your pounamu.)

Many people choose to offer a simple blessing, especially when gifting the taonga, while others prefer to wear it immediately, allowing significance to naturally develop. There's no single correct method, choose whatever feels respectful and meaningful.

Here are suggested methods for blessing:

  • Awa (Water) Blessing:
     Hold your pendant in flowing water (river, stream, or sea) and express your intention aloud, e.g., “May this taonga guide and protect you.” Allow the water to gently wash over it, then dry softly.
  • Shared Intention:
     Hold the pounamu together with the recipient, clearly voicing your intentions (harmony, strength, protection). This shared moment itself is a powerful blessing.
  • Karakia with a Kaumātua:
     Seek guidance from a kaumātua (elder) or your local marae, where they can perform a short karakia (prayer) and provide cultural advice on caring for your pounamu.

Whether formally blessed or not, your pounamu carries the respect, intention, and mana (prestige, spirit) you give it.

Āe (yes). Traditionally, Māori gifted and personally selected pounamu, believing the stone’s mana (spiritual energy) uniquely resonates with an individual’s wairua (spirit). Choosing your own pounamu is an empowering act of self-care, reflection, and deep connection to the land, culture, and heritage of Aotearoa, ensuring your taonga genuinely aligns with your personal journey.

While some believe pounamu must only be gifted, this is a modern misconception. Historically, Māori have always traded, gifted, and chosen pounamu for themselves.

Discover Our Collection

No two Porowhita pendants are identical. Natural variations in pounamu colour, pattern, and translucency make each one truly unique.

Shop Porowhita
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Porowhita Circle of Life Small
$95.00
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Porowhita Greenstone Large Pendant
$155.00
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Porowhita – Circle of Life – Medium
$149.00
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Porowhita Circles of life Extra Large, Black Binding
$179.00

Your Porowhita pendant will carry the meaning, intentions, and respect you impart, becoming a cherished taonga.