Jade SHAPING

jade shaping – Create Your Own Taonga

Hokitika is famous for its greenstone, and now you can shape your own stone in an authentic hands-on workshop.

Before you begin, you’ll enjoy a short video about the history and cultural significance of greenstone on the West Coast.
Then, under expert guidance, you’ll shape, smooth, and finish your own pendant.

In a hurry?
No problem—guests can choose the level of work they’d like to do. Pick a pre-shaped, pre-polished stone and simply drill and cord your pendant… then wear it out the door. Or stay longer and craft your taonga from start to finish.

Al greenstone used is 100% locally sourced from the West Coast.

Book Jade Shaping

HOW IT WORKS

Quick Experience: Pick, Drill & Wear

Perfect for travellers on the move or anyone wanting a fast but authentic taste of jade shaping.

  • Choose from a beautiful range of pre-shaped, pre-polished greenstone pendants.

  • Add your personal touch by drilling the cord hole yourself (with full guidance).
    Prefer not to drill? You can simply watch our team do it.

  • Finish by attaching your braided cord and walk out wearing your greenstone within minutes.

This option is simple, meaningful, and ideal when you’re tight on time.

Full Experience: shape Your Own Taonga

The ultimate hands-on activity for families, couples, groups, and anyone wanting a truly personal keepsake.

  • Start by choosing a rough pre-cut piece of genuine West Coast greenstone.

  • Sketch your design—shapes, symbols, initials, or your own creative idea.

  • Use our bench grinders and tools (with support at every step) to shape your pendant exactly how you want it.

  • Hand-polish the stone to the level of finish you prefer—from natural satin to a deep glassy shine.

  • Drill your own cord hole (staff will guide you based on your comfort level).

  • Tie your braided cord and leave with a one-of-a-kind pendant you made yourself.

This is a relaxed, immersive session where you connect with greenstone, learn real shaping skills, and create something you’ll treasure forever.

Book Now

Shapes You Can Carve

  • Teardrop Jade Pendant

    Teardrops

  • Toki Jade Pendant

    Simple toki/bar shapes

  • Heart Jade Pendant

    Hearts

  • Oval Jade Pendant

    Ovals

  • Round Freeform Jade Pendant

    Rounded or freeform solids

DAILY SCHEDULE

Our activities run in staggered sessions to keep group sizes small and the experience personal.

10:00am–12:00pm

1:30am–3:30pm

Perfect for families, travellers on a schedule, or anyone wanting to try both activities in one day.

Make Your Visit to Hokitika Unforgettable

Whether you're uncovering real West Coast gold or shaping your own greenstone pendant, you’ll leave with a meaningful memento—and memories you’ll carry forever.

Ready to experience Hokitika’s heritage for yourself?

Book your Jade Shaping session today.

BOOK NOW