Hands-On Workshops

tō ake taonga. In this small, guided workshop you’ll design, carve, sand, and polish your own pounamu pendant to take home the same day. We keep groups tiny so you get one-on-one support, safe tool use, and space to connect with the tikanga that surrounds pounamu.

What you’ll make

Most participants finish a classic form such as a toki (adze), koru, roimata (teardrop), or simple drop in the 2 hour session. The flat rate includes a standard small–medium pre-cut stone (35–40 mm), waxed cord, and finishing polish.

How it works (step-by-step)

1. Karakia & kōrero: Open the space, meet your facilitators, and learn a little about stone types, sourcing and tikanga.
2. Design: Choose your pendant shape. We’ll help you sketch a design that suits both the stone and your skill level.
3. Rough shaping: Using a bench grinder, you’ll shape your form with close guidance and full PPE.
4. Refining & sanding: Progress through grits by hand and machine to bring out smooth lines and curves.
5. Polishing: On the polishing wheel your taonga starts to glow—the grain and colour come alive.
6. Cord & finish: Tie or fit your cord, learn basic aftercare, and we’ll snap a photo (optional) of you with your new taonga.

What’s included

• 2 hour workshop (small group, beginner-friendly)
• Use of tools & PPE: Dremel, bench grinder, polishing wheel, sandpapers, safety gear
• Standard pre-cut raw stone (35–40 mm)
• Waxed cord and finishing polish
• Tutor support throughout

Upgrades & extras (optional, chosen in-store)

• Premium/rarer stone
• Premium braided cord $20
• Extra studio time beyond 2 hours (if needed): $25 per 30 min.