Greenstone Carving Workshop Stewart Island | Rakiura Jade Pounamu Studio
Updated: 6 th July 2026
Rakiura Jade Workshop – Carve Your Own Greenstone (Pounamu) on Stewart Island
Experience a hands-on greenstone carving workshop on Stewart Island at Rakiura Jade, where you’ll create your own authentic New Zealand pounamu pendant.
Guided by skilled local artisan Jeromy Van Riel, you’ll shape, carve and polish genuine New Zealand greenstone while discovering the cultural significance of pounamu and creating a unique keepsake to take home.
Located on beautiful Stewart Island overlooking Halfmoon Bay, the studio offers a relaxed and welcoming environment where beginners and experienced creatives alike can learn traditional carving techniques and experience one of New Zealand’s most meaningful artistic traditions.
Learn Greenstone Carving at Rakiura Jade on Stewart Island
Meet Your Instructor
Jeromy Van Riel is passionate about sharing the traditional craft of greenstone carving with visitors to Stewart Island. His relaxed teaching style and personal guidance ensure every participant leaves with a unique handcrafted pounamu pendant and memories to match.
Create Your Own Pounamu Masterpiece
Join Jeromy Van Riel at the Rakiura Jade studio overlooking beautiful Halfmoon Bay and discover the traditional art of greenstone carving. During this full-day workshop you’ll shape, carve and polish your own authentic New Zealand pounamu pendant using professional tools and guidance every step of the way.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or enjoy creative projects, this relaxed hands-on experience is designed for all skill levels. You’ll leave with a finished piece of pounamu jewellery and a deeper appreciation of one of New Zealand’s most treasured natural materials.
Phone: NZ(+64) 212656 418 Contact: Jeromy Van Riel
Email: [email protected] Visit our Website: www.rakiurajade.co.nz/
Stewart Island Greenstone Carving Workshop – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I carve my own greenstone (pounamu) on Stewart Island?
Yes. At Rakiura Jade, you can join a hands-on greenstone (pounamu) carving workshop where you’ll create your own authentic New Zealand pendant. Guided by Jeromy Van Riel, you’ll learn traditional carving techniques before taking your finished piece home as a unique keepsake.
Do I need previous carving experience to join the workshop?
No. The workshop is designed for beginners as well as those with previous creative experience. Jeromy Van Riel provides step-by-step guidance throughout the day, making it easy for anyone aged 11 years and over to create their own handcrafted pounamu pendant.
What will I make during the greenstone carving workshop?
You’ll create your own handcrafted Toki-style pounamu (greenstone) pendant from a selected piece of genuine New Zealand greenstone. Throughout the workshop you’ll shape, carve, drill and polish your stone before taking home a finished piece that’s completely unique.
How long does the Stewart Island greenstone carving workshop take?
The workshop is a full-day experience, beginning at 10:30 am and finishing at approximately 5:00 pm. Additional workshop days can also be arranged by negotiation for those wishing to spend more time developing their carving skills.
How much does the greenstone carving workshop cost?
The full-day greenstone carving workshop costs NZ$250 per person, including your selected piece of New Zealand pounamu, the use of all carving equipment, expert instruction, and your finished handcrafted pendant to take home.
How do you carve greenstone (pounamu)?
During the workshop you’ll learn every stage of the carving process, including selecting your stone, shaping, cutting, drilling, sanding and polishing genuine New Zealand pounamu using professional tools under expert guidance. No previous carving experience is required, making this an enjoyable and rewarding experience for beginners and creative enthusiasts alike.