Finding Authentic Jade in Auckland

Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) is often the first and last stop for travellers exploring New Zealand. It is also where the search begins for authentic New Zealand jade, also known as pounamu. Whether purchasing a gift for someone special or for yourself, knowing where to buy genuine New Zealand jade, matters.

Before buying jade from any greenstone store, many visitors want to understand its cultural significance. In Māori culture, pounamu is more than just a stone. It carries mana, whakapapa, and wairua, often gifted to mark milestones, relationships, and commemorations. Traditionally, pounamu has held immense value, passed down as heirlooms and treasured gifts for people of high rank.

Where to Buy Authentic New Zealand Jade in Auckland

Boh Runga

Boh Runga is one of New Zealand’s most recognised jewellery designers, celebrated for contemporary designs that occasionally feature jade elements in necklaces and earrings. Visitors can find Boh Runga at various locations, including Auckland Airport and her Ponsonby Road store, offering a curated collection of modern jewellery.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

The Auckland Art Gallery is an excellent destination for those interested in New Zealand jade jewellery. The gallery regularly features exhibitions by contemporary New Zealand artists, some of whom incorporate pounamu. These exhibitions provide a bridge between traditional craft and modern design, helping visitors appreciate both the artistry and cultural heritage behind every piece.

Auckland Markets and Cultural Festivals

Across Auckland, seasonal markets and cultural festivals occasionally feature greenstone carving, weaving, and local art. These events allow visitors to meet artists directly and experience the storytelling behind their craft. However, because these markets are not always available year-round, permanent and trusted jade specialists remain the most reliable option for authentic New Zealand greenstone.

Mountain Jade

Mountain Jade is one of New Zealand’s most established and trusted names for authentic jade. With decades of experience working alongside master carvers, Mountain Jade specialises in ethically sourced jade carved by New Zealand artists.

Mountain Jade also features international jade carvings, allowing visitors to see how carving is interpreted across different greenstone types while making buying jade accessible for everyone.

Mountain Jade - Mānawa Bay

Located at Mānawa Bay, Auckland’s premium outlet shopping destination, Mountain Jade offers visitors the opportunity to purchase meaningful jade jewellery in a modern, accessible setting. Each piece tells a story from traditional forms such as hei matau, toki, and manaia, to contemporary designs for everyday wear. Knowledgeable staff guide customers through the symbolism and gifting traditions of pounamu, ensuring every purchase is informed and intentional. For Auckland locals and visitors alike, Mānawa Bay provides a relaxed environment to choose a taonga that will last a lifetime.

Mountain Jade - Auckland International Airport

For travellers departing Aotearoa, Mountain Jade at Auckland International Airport is a trusted destination to purchase authentic jade jewellery before flying home or visiting whānau overseas. Situated after security within a carefully curated retail space, the store ensures visitors can confidently purchase genuine greenstone jewellery, including greenstone necklaces, pounamu pendants, and jade earrings. Purchasing from Mountain Jade offers peace of mind, as every piece is genuine, carved with care, and supported by decades of expertise in jade carving.

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