Te Wai Pounamu

“Poutini, the guardian of Pounamu and a taniwha (a giant water being), snatched a beautiful Māori woman, Waitaiki, from the North Island.
He brought her south eventually to the Arahura River but her husband Tamaahua gave chase.
Fearing Tamaahua’s strength and determination, Poutini decided that if he could not have Waitaiki, no-one would.
He transformed her into his likeness, Pounamu, and laid her in the cold dark waters of the river.
The jade fragments that break off and roll down the river to the sea are known as Waitaiki’s children.”

The three Koru represent Waitaiki, Poutini and Tamaahua, with Poutini standing between the separated couple. Tamaahua bears a paua shell, which is believed to bring connectivity and harmony to relationships, but is also a symbol of change and transition and is thought to bring peace to the wearer.

SOLD courtesy of The Winter Exhibition, Welcome Swallow Gallery from 1 July - 30 September 2023

About the artist

Toni Kingstone Art

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My work is largely inspired by nature - I create peaceful representations that the viewer can connect with emotionally, drawing them into place of calm contemplation.