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NZ Greenstone Pounamu | Dale Borland Necklace Fishhook 40mm
The hei matau: worn for safe passage, abundance and strength.
$159.99
- Free NZ shipping on orders over $150
- Free pickup from our Hahei store3/3 Grange Road, Hahei
- Order before 12pm on a weekday and it usually leaves the same day
- Store credit or exchange within 14 days on full-price itemsReturns & exchanges
Description
The hei matau — the traditional Māori fishhook — is one of the most powerful and iconic forms in New Zealand pounamu carving, and this 40mm pendant wears its heritage with quiet pride.
Representing safe passage over water, abundance, and strength, the hei matau was worn by skilled navigators and fishermen as a spiritual talisman. Today it is given as a gift of protection, prosperity, and good fortune to those embarking on new journeys.
Sourced from the South Island and blessed in preparation for gifting, this pendant is a taonga ready to accompany its wearer through life's adventures. A meaningful and enduring gift from the heart of Aotearoa.
Learn more: What the hei matau (hook) means, and the meanings of other pounamu shapes →
Caring for your pounamu: Pounamu is a natural stone, so every piece is unique in its colour and markings. Wear it against your skin and it will develop a beautiful glow over time. Read about pounamu, the living stone →
Shipping & Returns
Free NZ shipping on orders of $150 or more. Otherwise $9 standard, $15 express or rural, or free pickup from our Hahei store.
Oversized items $10 (NZ only). Australia $50. Breakables are packed carefully; pickup is recommended for fragile pieces if you're local.
Changed your mind? Store credit or exchange within 14 days on full-price items.
Delivery Times
New Zealand
- Standard: 2–3 working days
- Express (non-rural): 1–2 working days
- Rural addresses: allow an extra 1–2 days
Australia
- Usually up to 14 working days
Orders placed before 12pm on a weekday usually leave the same day.
One of a kind: every piece is unique, so colour, markings and finish vary a little from piece to piece. The photos show a representative piece. Want to see yours before you buy? Message us for photos, or pop in and choose in store.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the shape of a pounamu represent?
Each carved form carries its own meaning. The koru symbolises new life and growth, the twist (pikorua) represents two paths joined together, the hook (hei matau) speaks of safe travel and abundance, and the toki (adze) stands for strength and purpose.
What is the Māori symbol for good luck?
The koru is one of the forms most associated with good fortune and new beginnings, though pieces like the hook and the twist are also commonly gifted as symbols of protection and good luck.
What does the pounamu twist symbolise?
Known as the pikorua, the twist represents two paths — two people, two cultures, two journeys — entwined together in a bond that lasts a lifetime.
What does a heart-shaped pounamu mean?
A simple, universal symbol of love and connection, often given to mark a relationship, a milestone, or simply to let someone know they're cherished.
