New Mural Brings Culture and Colour to Bonz n Stonz Carving Studio

An inspiring depiction of the spirit of pounamu. This artwork weaves together the strength, beauty, and deep cultural significance of pounamu, celebrating our connection to the land, our community’s heritage, and the timeless wisdom that guides us forward

This public artwork transforms our shop front into more than just a retail space; it’s now a living canvas that tells a story of ancestry, growth, and connection.

Honouring Our Tūpuna

At the heart of the mural is the portrait of a Māori kuia (elder), her moko kauae (chin tattoo) rendered in shades of slate gray. Her gaze, uplifted and steady, invites passersby to pause, reflect, and remember the generations whose strength and knowledge have shaped our whenua. The gentle highlights in her hair and skin capture the light just so—an artistic nod to the grace and resilience carried by our kaumātua.

Mauri of Pounamu Brought to Life

Radiating from behind the kuia, vibrant ribbons of lime and forest green pulse with energy—breathing mauri into the pounamu and the sacred stories it holds. The swirling koru motifs symbolise new life, growth, and eternal connection, while lush fern fronds weave across the walls, binding tradition to the present. Against the warm terracotta backdrop, the greens awaken the spirit of the stone and the wisdom of our ancestors, merging art with the architecture to honour the living stories of our land.

The mauri of our ancestors breathes through stone, story, and spirit.

Here, the sacred lifeforce of pounamu awakens — carried on the winds of memory, anchored in the wisdom of those who walked before us.

Every line, every green thread weaving through these walls, honours the sacred connection between people, whenua, and taonga.”

A Collaboration with Local Talent

This mural is a true collaboration, brought to life through the vision and skill of a talented young tāne, Jacob Ruth of Distranged Design, Christchurch. Jacob’s mastery of form and colour has captured the essence of our concept beautifully.

“I wanted to capture both the enduring mana (prestige) of our elders and the vitality of wairua within the pounamu,” says Jacob. “By integrating the wairua and fern elements into the shop’s façade, we’re celebrating what makes this place unique—our culture, our people, and our landscape.”

Steve Gawaliasi , Artist Jacob Ruth, Paul Berry

More Than Just a Shopfront

Every visit to Bonz n Stonz is now an experience. Whether you’re popping in to browse our collection of bone and stone jewellery or simply strolling the street, the mural invites you to engage with local art and heritage. It’s a reminder that our story continues to unfold—rooted in the past, blossoming toward the future.

Come See It for Yourself

Swing by 16 Hamilton Street, Hokitika any time you’re in town.

Step across the ramp and into our world of handcrafted treasures, all against the backdrop of this dynamic new mural. Snap a photo, share your thoughts on social media (tag us @bonznstonz _carvingstudio), and join us in celebrating the art that brings our community to life.

We can’t wait to see how this mural inspires you!