Māori Traditions When Buying Pounamu In New Zealand
Pounamu, also known as greenstone, is more than just a stone, it is a taonga (treasure) with deep cultural significance. It carries mana (prestige) and wairua (spirit), representing strength, connection, and a deep bond with the natural world. For generations, it has been carved with care, gifted with meaning, and worn as a symbol of protection, identity, and the relationships that shape our lives.
Many wonder about its traditions, should pounamu always be gifted? When is the right time to give it? Why is it blessed? Understanding these customs helps us appreciate pounamu not just for its beauty, but for the meaning and intention it holds.
Blessing Pounamu
Why is pounamu blessed in Māori culture?
Pounamu is a tapu (sacred) stone and is an integral part of Māori culture. Traditionally, pounamu is blessed to imbue it with mana (spiritual power) and to honour the ancestral lineage of both the stone and its wearer. This act of blessing acknowledges pounamu’s deep connection to the land and bearer and helps ensure that it is worn with respect and gratitude.
Is Arrowtown Stonework Pounamu Blessed?
At Arrowtown Stonework, our whānau honours the beauty, mana, and cultural significance of pounamu. While we do not personally bless our pieces, we respect the traditions that surround them.
A blessing is a deeply personal act, meant for the gifter and/or the wearer rather than the carver. It should be done in a way that feels meaningful to them, which is why we do not bless each piece ourselves. Instead, we believe the blessing should come from the person who will wear or gift the taonga, ensuring it carries the right intention.
We encourage those who purchase pounamu, especially as a gift, to consider blessing it themselves, as this adds a deeper personal connection. Whether performed by a kaumātua (elder) or through a simple personal ceremony, a blessing can bring meaning to the taonga and strengthen the bond between giver and receiver. There is no right or wrong approach, what matters most is the intention behind it. For guidance on how to bless pounamu, please refer to the answer below.
How can I get my pounamu blessed?
Blessing pounamu is a personal choice, often linked to the significance of gifting. In Māori culture, concepts like tapu (sacredness) and noa (the removal of tapu) are central to the tradition of blessing.
You can seek guidance from a Māori kaumātua (elder) or local Marae for traditional practices, or perform a personal blessing by cleansing the pounamu in a river or stream with a karakia (prayer). When saying your karakia, you may choose words and intentions that reflect your hopes for the wearer, such as protection, strength, or connection. Sharing the meaning of blessing with the recipient can add even more meaning to the gift.
Pounamu As A Gift
Why is it a tradition to give pounamu in New Zealand?
Gifting pounamu in Aotearoa is a tradition rooted in manaakitanga (hospitality) and the sharing of one’s blessings. This tradition has been carried through to the modern day, cementing the importance of pounamu. Māori believe that when pounamu is passed from one person to another, it forms an unbreakable bond, which is a way to show care, respect, and aroha (love). Presenting pounamu as a koha (gift) to loved ones in New Zealand is a genuine gesture of goodwill, symbolising the desire to connect and protect.
Can I buy pounamu for myself?
Yes, you can buy pounamu for yourself. Historically, pounamu was a highly valued resource, frequently traded among Māori tribes. Over time, it also became a token of affection when gifted. While some people believe that pounamu must be received from someone else to avoid bad luck, there is no cultural requirement preventing you from purchasing a piece for yourself. If you feel drawn to a particular design or sense a special connection, it is perfectly acceptable to buy and wear your own pounamu. Ultimately, the personal significance you attach to it matters most, whether it is gifted or self-chosen.
When is the right time to give pounamu?
Pounamu is often gifted to mark significant milestones such as birthdays, weddings, and graduations, offering a tangible symbol of celebration and connection. It can also be shared during more challenging periods, when someone is facing loss or navigating a difficult transition, pounamu’s comforting presence can provide guidance, resilience, and a reminder of support. For those traveling overseas or embarking on new beginnings, its protective qualities and cultural significance can ease feelings of distance, offering a sense of security and belonging.
Gifting pounamu to a close friend, loved one, or whānau member deepens the bond of aroha (love), underscoring the care and support between you. While there are no strict rules about the “right” time to give pounamu, the intention behind the gift, recognition, comfort, protection, or celebration, is what truly makes it meaningful.
Traditional Pounamu Designs in New Zealand
What are traditional pounamu pendant designs?
Explore the rich symbolism of traditional pounamu designs, each carrying its own unique meaning and significance. You can find a full list of popular pounamu designs here.
Does each pounamu design have a unique meaning?
Every traditional pounamu design carries a deeper meaning, representing connection to whenua (land), people, and life’s journey. More than just a carving, each piece is a taonga, shaped with intention and significance. Whether chosen for protection, new beginnings, or guidance, these designs reflect stories and values passed down for generations, making them a meaningful choice for anyone who wears them.