A practical and beautifully crafted artwork. Emits a very pure tone. Note that the team of dogs just performs the same!
A Medley of Connection and Craftsmanship
This whistle symbolises the connection between shepherds, dogs, and nature across Aotearoa. Known for its clear tone, it ensures effective communication over vast landscapes. As a taonga, it reflects respect for nature, combining practical shepherding with cultural connections.
The Original Greenstone Whistle
First crafted 30 years ago by my father for a farmer at Branches Station near the scenic Shotover River, this whistle combines clear pitch and a wide range of sounds for effective communication with dogs on the farm, in town, or with the kids. Renowned for its quality and function, it symbolises expert craftsmanship.
What our customers think
FAQs
We respect your choice and do not bless our finished pounamu pieces. However, we encourage those who purchase to consider blessing it before gifting. Please see the answer below regarding "How can I bless pounamu."
Blessing pounamu is a personal choice often associated with gifting to someone close. Seek guidance from a Kaumatua or local Marae for traditional practices. Alternatively, you can honor tradition by cleansing the pounamu in a river or stream with a karakia (prayer), or by blessing it with the recipient to share your intentions. These methods allow for meaningful engagement with pounamu according to personal beliefs and connections.
Yes, you can buy pounamu for yourself without cultural taboo. In Māori history, pounamu was both a cherished gift and a traded commodity among tribes, symbolizing honor, respect, and enduring value. Whether purchased or received, owning a pounamu taonga carries deep spiritual significance, enhancing personal mana (spiritual life force) and connecting past traditions with the present. Whether for yourself or as a gift to friends or loved ones, the choice that feels meaningful to you is important.
Each river-tumbled pounamu bracelet is uniquely shaped and colored, showcasing its natural beauty. During checkout, you can leave a note for our whānau specifying your preferences for the bracelet's shape or color, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request.
Each Māori design carries unique cultural significance:
- Koru: New beginnings, growth, harmony
- Toki: Strength, resilience, wisdom
- Pounamu Bracelet: Connection, protection, unity
- Hei Matau: Prosperity, strength, safe journeys
- Pikorua: Aroha (love), enduring bonds, life's cycles
- Roimata: Healing, empathy, connection
- Porowhita: Life cycle, harmony, interconnectedness
- Whale’s Tail & Niho: Guardianship, intelligence, aroha
- Manaia & Breastplate: Protection, balance, resilience
Each item purchased comes with its own individual meaning card. Learn more about their stories and meanings here.
Each pounamu pendant or bracelet is carefully packaged with its meaning and care cards to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. Your purchase includes:
- An individual meaning card explaining the cultural significance of the chosen design
- A care card with instructions on maintaining your pounamu
- A protective linen eco pouch for bracelets or a certified eco box for pendants
- Secure packaging in a recyclable shipping box made from recycled materials
Upgrades and Additional Options:
You can add these upgrades on the product page:
- Gift Wrapping: Optional gift wrapping with a personal handwritten tag.
- Kete Packaging: Display your pounamu in a traditional kete (flax basket).
Yes, we offer a re-binding service for your treasured pendant or bracelet using expertly hand-woven binding. Renew your valued piece by purchasing our re-binding services here and sending it to our Arrowtown workshop.
If you have a special request for your engraving that isn't covered in the standard options, such as additional characters or a unique symbol, please contact us via email at hello@arrowtownstonework.co.nz.
We will do our best to accommodate your personalised pounamu request
Celebrate Treasured Moments with Pounamu
Celebrate Treasured Moments with Pounamu
Over 35 Years of Greenstone Carving in Arrowtown
Over 35 Years of Greenstone Carving in Arrowtown
Our whānau workshop, led by my father, a master carver from Ngāti Kahungunu, carves and shapes traditional Māori designs that celebrate meaning and connection with friends, whānau, or loved ones.
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