My name is Te Kaha, and I have been working with the Pounamu for the last 14 years.
As a result of this gift I have chosen to work only with New Zealand stone.

Being given an understanding of Pounamu is an inherited as much as learned ability.
My name "Te Kaha" comes from the People of Stone (Ngati Kohatu).

The work I do with Pounamu involves translating a thought, a whakaaro, into a Taonga (Treasure). I work the Pounamu as did my tipuna, to hold the energy, the essence of the concept within the design.

Also in keeping with the Kawa or protocols of my people in regards of carving Pounamu, I do not eat or drink in my workshop. There is no smoking or any other distraction in my workshop and as I am totally drug and alcohol free. I feel that these aspects are reflected in the finished Taonga.

Kia ora,
Te Kaha