Aotea Niho
- Regular price
- $300.00
- Sale price
- $300.00
- Regular price
-
- Unit price
Striking and distinctive, this Aotea niho pendant is handcrafted from rare Aotea stone, showcasing the beautiful natural colours and unique mineral patterns of one of Aotearoa’s rarest stones. Featuring an elegant, curved tooth-inspired form, smooth polished surfaces and intricate traditional black cord binding, this exceptional taonga combines contemporary craftsmanship with the enduring significance of Māori carving traditions.
Found exclusively in South Westland, Aotea is prized for its remarkable combination of blue, green and cream tones, with natural mineral patterns that make every piece unique. The beautiful soft blue colouring throughout this pendant is interwoven with pale green, cream and subtle earthy veining, creating a distinctive natural contrast. Its sweeping curved form and gently tapered point highlight the natural beauty of the stone. Traditionally associated with strength, courage, protection and resilience, the niho is a powerful symbol of determination and personal strength.
Westland Greenstone is the only retail store in New Zealand authorised to sell Aotea stone, reflecting the special relationship of Kāti Māhaki ki Makaawhio as kaitiaki of this rare taonga and their commitment to protecting its cultural significance and provenance.
- Genuine Aotea stone from South Westland
- Distinctive curved niho pendant design
- Beautiful natural blue, pale green and cream colouring
- Subtle earthy mineral veining and unique natural marbling
- Smooth, polished finish with an elegant tapered point
- Intricate traditional black cord binding and braided necklace
- Symbolises strength, courage, protection and resilience
- Made in New Zealand
- Exclusively available through Westland Greenstone
Our pounamu is sourced from Te Tai Poutini, the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island—the ancestral home of pounamu.
Each piece is selected for its natural beauty before being shaped and finished by skilled carvers. From deep greens and rich earthy tones to delicate patterns and areas of translucency, every piece reflects the character of the stone from which it was created.
We are proud to offer genuine New Zealand pounamu, chosen and crafted to become a taonga that can be worn, treasured and passed down through generations.
Pounamu is a natural stone formed over millions of years, so no two pieces are exactly alike. Variations in colour, pattern, texture, inclusions and translucency are part of its unique character—not imperfections.
Some of our photographs show the exact piece available, while others represent the wider design or collection. Where an individually photographed piece is not specified, the pounamu you receive may differ slightly from the images shown. Its shape and overall design will remain consistent, but the natural qualities of the stone will make it uniquely yours.
Pounamu is renowned for its strength and durability, but every carved piece should still be treated with care.
Clean your taonga gently using warm water and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning products. Take care not to drop it onto hard surfaces, as fine areas and detailed carvings may be vulnerable to impact.
If your piece has a cord, binding or metal fitting, check it regularly for signs of wear—particularly when worn every day. We also recommend removing jewellery before swimming, showering or taking part in activities where it may be caught or damaged.
With thoughtful care, your pounamu can be treasured for many years and passed on to future generations.
We carefully inspect and package every order before it leaves us. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive tracking information so you can follow its journey.
Delivery timeframes vary depending on your location and are calculated at checkout. Please ensure your delivery details are correct before completing your order. International customers are responsible for any customs duties, taxes or import charges that may apply in their country.
If your order arrives damaged or there is a problem with your purchase, please contact us as soon as possible with your order number and photographs of the item and packaging. For change-of-mind returns or exchanges, please refer to our Returns Policy for eligibility, timeframes and instructions.
Nikora Mahuika
