27 Jul 2026
Tucked away in the heart of Rotorua is a place where one of Aotearoa's oldest art forms continues.
The Mountain Jade Studio Tour is more than an opportunity to see beautiful pounamu. It is an invitation into a working Māori carving studio, where skilled artists transform raw New Zealand pounamu into taonga carrying stories, identity and connection.
Welcome to the World of Pounamu
As you walk through our doors, you step into a space filled with decades of knowledge being passed from one generation to the next. Here, every carving is shaped with intention, every artist has a story to tell, and every visitor is invited to become part of that journey.
Every tour begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to the story of pounamu.
Before you see a carving take shape, you'll discover why this stone has been treasured by Māori for centuries. Learn where New Zealand pounamu comes from, how it has traditionally been used, and why it remains one of Aotearoa's most significant natural treasures today.
You'll also learn about Mountain Jade's commitment to ethical sourcing through Ngāi Tahu, ensuring every piece begins its journey with respect for both the stone and its cultural significance.
This stone has been treasured by Māori for centuries
Watch the Stone Come Alive
As you move into the carving studio, the atmosphere changes. The gentle sound of carving wheels fills the workshop. Water cools the stone as sparks of creativity become visible in every careful movement.
Guests witness every stage of the carving process, from selecting and studying the natural shape of the stone, to cutting, shaping, refining and polishing. Every decision is made by hand. Every piece develops differently, guided by the character of the pounamu itself. There is no production line. No two carvings are ever the same.
Meet the Artists Behind the Taonga
One of the highlights of the Mountain Jade Studio Tour is meeting the people who dedicate their lives to this ancient art form.
Leading our Rotorua carving studio is artist Tamaora Walker. Alongside Tama you’ll have the opportunity to meet Akapita Scally, Jason Vercoe, Daniel Malcolm, Foua Aliki Tuielu, Dylan Hati, James Pirika and Tiakiwai Mauri Walker whose passion, experience and creativity shape both the carvings and the next generation of artists working alongside them.
As you watch them work, you'll see that every movement has purpose. Every line is carefully considered. Every carving carries meaning inspired by Māori traditions, the natural world and the unique qualities of each individual piece of pounamu. Visitors also have the opportunity to speak with our artists, ask questions about their work and gain insights that simply can't be found on a gallery label.
It's these conversations that many guests remember long after they've returned home.
Continue Your Journey
After exploring the studio, the experience becomes even more personal. Guests are invited to try their hand at traditional carving techniques, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the patience, precision and skill required to shape pounamu.
To conclude the tour, each guest selects their own piece of authentic New Zealand pounamu and learns the art of lashing, creating a meaningful keepsake to take home as a complimentary reminder of their time at Mountain Jade.
Guests are also invited to browse our gallery, where many of the carvings have been created by the very artists they've just watched at work. Whether you're searching for a meaningful gift, a personal keepsake, or simply wishing to continue learning about Māori art, our gallery offers the opportunity to connect with authentic New Zealand pounamu in a way few experiences can.
Interested in learning about New Zealand Jade Carving? Book a tour with us here
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Māori pounamu carving in Rotorua?
Mountain Jade's Rotorua Studio Tour allows visitors to watch skilled Māori artists carving authentic New Zealand pounamu in a working studio. Guests can observe the carving process, meet the artists and learn about the cultural significance of pounamu.
Can you meet the carvers during the tour?
Yes. Visitors are invited to meet members of our carving team, ask questions and learn about their creative process.
What happens on the Mountain Jade Studio Tour?
Guests are welcomed into our working carving studio, where they learn about the history of pounamu, watch the carving process unfold, meet Māori artists, choose their own piece and explore our gallery of authentic New Zealand pounamu.
Is this a real carving workshop?
Yes. Mountain Jade is an active carving studio where our artists work every day. The tour offers genuine access to the creative process rather than a staged demonstration.
How long does the studio tour take?
The guided experience takes approximately 40 minutes, with additional time to browse the gallery afterward.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The experience is suitable for visitors of all ages and offers an engaging way to learn about Māori art, craftsmanship and New Zealand's cultural heritage.
What makes Mountain Jade different?
Mountain Jade combines ethical New Zealand pounamu, a working Māori carving studio, experienced resident artists and decades of craftsmanship into one authentic cultural experience. Rather than simply viewing finished pieces, visitors witness the journey from raw stone to completed taonga and meet the people who bring each carving to life.
