Pounamu Mere

Mere pounamu (greenstone weapons) are the most revered of all Māori weapons. They are flat, broad-blade patu (clubs) made from pounamu (nephrite jade), a precious stone found in Aotearoa New Zealand. Mere pounamu were used for close-quarter fighting, but they were also more than just weapons. They were symbols of chieftainship, status, and mana (power and prestige).

Deane Moreton learnt his craft working alongside his father in the family Pounamu business. Now with over 40 years’ experience in sourcing and handcrafting New Zealand Pounamu, Deane is highly regarded as one of New Zealand’s leading experts in the industry. His carvings and jewellery are the perfect blend of tradition Maori design and contemporary works inspired by Aotearoa’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Deane’s studios in Christchurch and on the West Coast, boast collaborations with some of New Zealand’s most renowned Pounamu and Bone Carvers. Deane teaches and develops young carvers, ensuring that the skills of carving and its traditions are passed down to the next generation of Greenstone carvers.

Deane has acquired an enviable collection of exquisite carvings and has arguably the largest personal collection of raw material, of which pounamu carvings will be made for years to come.