At Moko Pounamu, we specialise in hand-carved pounamu taonga, crafted with care and integrity.
About Us
Our workshop creates a wide range of pieces, from traditional forms like toki and koru to bespoke works designed for corporate gifting, commemorative events, and special presentations. Our team also creates large-scale taonga for placement in corporate offices, government buildings, and other prominent locations.
We understand the importance of gifting with meaning. Whether you’re marking a retirement, welcoming international guests, or recognising achievement, we can help create a piece that reflects your values and leaves a lasting impression.
For all corporate enquiries, including bespoke commissions, bulk orders, and design consultations, please contact Louise Wedlake, our dedicated corporate representative. Louise will guide you through the process to ensure your taonga is designed and delivered with the utmost care and professionalism.
Our History
Moko Pounamu is part of Moreton Jewellery, a family-owned business based in Christchurch, with a legacy in pounamu carving that spans generations.
Founded by Deane Moreton, Moko Pounamu continues the tradition started by his father, Alf Moreton, who established the Hokitika Jade Company and helped shape the modern greenstone industry in Aotearoa.
Deane learnt his craft whilst working alongside his father and with over 30 years+ experience in sourcing and handcrafting New Zealand Nephrite Jade, Deane is now considered to be one of New Zealand’s experts.
Each piece of pounamu that Deane creates is inspired by our rich culture and natural beauty. His collections feature traditional cultural and natural elements, and each design tells a story of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Louise Wedlake
Louise is Moko Pounamu’s Business Development Manager and the voice on the end of the phone for our corporate clients. Known for her collaborative approach and can-do attitude, Louise works closely with organisations to bring their vision to life – whether it’s a single bespoke piece or a large-scale gifting project.
With a strong network of trusted suppliers and partners, she can coordinate everything from custom pounamu or bone carvings to branded packaging, display bases, presentation boxes, support materials, and Ngāi Tahu certification (where available).
Louise is highly organised, personable, and always up for a challenge, making her the ideal partner to deliver meaningful, well-executed taonga for your team or event.
Deane Moreton
The Moreton family has a deep and longstanding connection with pounamu carving on the West Coast of New Zealand.
Deane Moreton continues this tradition, blending authentic craftsmanship with modern and traditional designs. He personally designs and creates many of the pieces Moko Pounamu sell, and also works with a team of carvers from around Aotearoa New Zealand, ensuring high quality design and craftmanship in every piece.
Once the initial requirements have been gathered from a client, Deane works closely with them to gain an understanding of the special nature of each taonga and the intention it will carry when it is presented. Additional meaning can be added to each piece by the choice of stone, the option of having multiple pieces carved from one pounamu rock, and of course the designs themselves and their intrinsic meanings in Te Ao Maori.