Whale Tail - Genuine Hapopo Pounamu

Deane Moreton learned his craft alongside his father in a family workshop dedicated to Pounamu. From these humble beginnings, his passion grew into a lifelong journey of storytelling through design. Today, his artistry reflects the strength, beauty, and mana of Pounamu, with every piece rooted in Māori traditions and values.

This graceful Whale Tail pendant is carved from genuine Hapopo pounamu. This piece showcases a vivid, bright apple-green tone throughout, with fine dark speckling scattered across the surface, brightening beautifully where the light passes through the thinner curves of the spiral. The design combines a flowing koru-style spiral with the sweeping form of a whale tail, symbolising new beginnings, strength, and a safe journey — both on land and at sea. Hung on an adjustable cord, this one-of-a-kind piece carries both the story of its West Coast origins and the natural vibrancy Hapopo stone is known for.

Hapopo - Genuine West Coast Greenstone. It's colour ranges from medium green to a dark forest green with a unique mottled texture. The name originating from Kā Umu o Hapopo (Big Bay) which is in Poutini ki te toka (South Westland).

The provenance of this stone has been established by Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio

This taonga has been carved from genuine New Zealand pounamu with a documented history of ownership and provenance. We proudly stand behind its origin and are privileged to share its story.

Size

52mm long x 25mm wide