New Zealand Greenstone Hook Necklace 44mm | Authentic Pounamu

This New Zealand Greenstone Hook Necklace is hand-carved from authentic pounamu sourced from New Zealand — a timeless Hei Matau (fish hook) design that carries deep meaning for those who wear it. Whether you're gifting it to a traveller, an overseas Kiwi, or someone embarking on a new chapter, this is a pendant that speaks with purpose. Every piece is entirely unique, shaped by the natural colours and character of the stone itself. Ships from Brisbane, Australia. 📦 Ships from Brisbane 🇦🇺 AU 2–6 days | NZ 4–8 days | US/UK 6–12 days Free shipping over $100 — automatically included on this piece. About This Pounamu Pendant Carved from authentic New Zealand pounamu (greenstone), this Hei Matau pendant follows one of the most enduring and beloved designs in Māori tradition. The fish hook form has been carved in pounamu for centuries — a shape that connects the wearer to the ocean, to Māori heritage, and to the values of strength and safe passage. Because pounamu is a natural stone, every pendant has its own unique colour, tone and markings. No two pieces are ever the same. Hand-carved from authentic New Zealand pounamu Traditional Hei Matau (fish hook) design Unique natural colours and markings 44mm — a strong, wearable size for everyday wear Every piece is one-of-a-kind Meaning of the Hei Matau (Fish Hook) The Hei Matau — the greenstone fish hook — is one of the most recognised and meaningful symbols in Māori culture. To understand why, you need to understand the role of fishing and navigation in the story of Aotearoa. For Māori, the ocean was not a barrier — it was a highway. The great waka hourua (voyaging canoes) navigated thousands of kilometres of open Pacific using the stars, the currents, and an intimate knowledge of the sea. Fishing was not just sustenance; it was a sacred act, a relationship between people and the ocean that demanded skill, respect and gratitude. The fish hook was at the centre of that relationship. In legend, it was the great demigod Māui who used a magical fish hook — made from his grandmother’s jawbone — to fish up the North Island of New Zealand from the ocean floor. The Hei Matau carries that story with it: the idea that with courage, skill and the right tools, extraordinary things are possible. Today, the Hei Matau pendant is worn as a symbol of: Safe travel — protection on every journey, by land or sea Protection — a guardian presence for the wearer Strength — the quiet power to face what lies ahead Prosperity — abundance and good fortune in all things Abundance — a full life, rich in what matters most Respect for the ocean — honouring the sea that shaped Aotearoa Guidance on life’s journey — finding your way through every transition It is one of the most gifted greenstone pendants for a reason — its meaning is universal, and its connection to New Zealand runs deep. Why This Makes a Meaningful Kiwi Gift The Greenstone Hook Necklace is one of the most versatile and heartfelt gifts in our collection. Its symbolism of safe travel and protection makes it especially meaningful for anyone heading somewhere new — or anyone you want to send off with something that truly matters. It’s particularly suited to: Travellers — a guardian for every journey Overseas Kiwis — a piece of home and heritage to carry with them Farewell gifts — sending someone off with protection and love New adventures — for anyone stepping into the unknown Family gifts — honouring the bonds that hold us Friendship gifts — for the friend who is always moving forward Anyone with a connection to New Zealand — or to the ocean Every pendant arrives in a gift pouch with a meaning card explaining the symbolism of the Hei Matau — beautifully presented and ready to gift, no extra wrapping needed. Product Details Size: 44mm x 23mm Material: Authentic New Zealand pounamu (greenstone) Origin: New Zealand Cord: Traditional adjustable waxed slipknot cord Presentation: Flax Gift pouch and meaning card included Uniqueness: Every piece is one-of-a-kind Shipping: Ships from Brisbane, Australia Common Questions Is this genuine New Zealand greenstone? Yes. Every pendant is carved from authentic pounamu sourced from New Zealand — not imitation stone or resin. Will I receive the exact pendant shown in the photo? Because pounamu is a natural stone, each piece has its own unique colour and markings. The pendant you receive will be similar in shape and size to the one shown, but beautifully unique to you. Does it come with a cord? Yes — your pendant comes on a traditional adjustable waxed slipknot cord, ready to wear straight away. What is included with my pendant? Your Hei Matau pendant arrives in a gift pouch with a meaning card explaining the symbolism of the fish hook — perfect for gifting with no extra wrapping needed. What does the fish hook symbol mean? The Hei Matau is a Māori symbol of safe travel, protection, strength, prosperity and respect for the ocean. It connects the wearer to the deep traditions of navigation and fishing that shaped Aotearoa, and is one of the most meaningful pendants you can wear or gift. Browse our full Authentic NZ Greenstone Collection, explore our Hook / Hei Matau Collection, or learn more about the stories behind your pendant in our Greenstone Necklace Meanings blog.