Palmwoods couple carves out a new future in New Zealand greenstone

A Palmwoods couple has marked three years at their artisan storefront after turning to traditional carving and jewellery making during a difficult period in their lives.

Tina and Dion Barclay operate Pounamu Queensland, which specialises in authentic Māori pounamu, or New Zealand greenstone, alongside bespoke jewellery, repairs and restringing services.

The business represented a major change of direction for Tina, a medically retired first responder who faced a long and challenging period following her service.

She and her husband opened the Palmwoods shop as a source of income and a way to build a new future together. Māori pounamu carving is the traditional practice of shaping New Zealand greenstone into pieces carrying cultural, spiritual and personal meaning.

“After everything we went through, opening this shop in Palmwoods wasn’t just about business – it was about survival and giving us both hope for the future,” Mrs Barclay said. 

“We have lived in Palmwoods for nearly 10 years and we absolutely love the community interaction here.

“The shop allows us to connect with locals every day, share stories and create bespoke jewellery that holds personal meaning for people.”

Dion is a Ngāi Tahu carver with almost 10 years’ experience, while Mrs Barclay designs jewellery using gemstones and manages the shop.

Mr Barclay’s commissions have included a bespoke piece for former New Zealand Warriors captain Tohu Harris.

The couple said their work was centred on authentic materials, traditional craftsmanship and sharing the cultural meaning behind pounamu.

They have also supported local schools and junior sporting clubs by donating custom-made pieces for fundraising and team initiatives.

Mrs Barclay said the support of the Palmwoods community had been particularly important as small retailers faced continuing financial pressures.

The shop has also become a place where customers bring jewellery for repairs or work with the couple to create pieces marking significant people or events in their lives.

For Mrs Barclay, those personal connections remain one of the most rewarding parts of the business.

Pounamu Queensland operates from its Margaret Street Palmwoods storefront and also sells its carvings and jewellery online.

Tina and Dion Barclay specialise in New Zealand greenstone,  from their Margaret Street, Palmwoods shop (see below).