Meet Our Local Artists

Discover the talented creators behind New Zealand's most beautiful handmade treasures. Each artist brings unique skills, traditions, and stories to their craft.

Featured Artists

Ceramic artist working in studio

Emma Wilson - Clay & Fire Ceramics

Based in Wellington, Emma creates functional pottery inspired by New Zealand's coastal landscapes. Her signature glazes mimic the colors of Kiwi beaches, from sandy shores to deep ocean blues.

Studio founded: 2015

Specialty: Hand-thrown mugs, bowls, and platters

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Weaver working on traditional loom

Aroha Te Whetu - Woolen Wonders

Aroha combines traditional Māori weaving techniques with contemporary designs. Working with locally-sourced merino wool, she creates luxurious blankets, scarves, and homeware items.

Studio founded: 2010

Specialty: Merino wool blankets and wall hangings

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Woodworker crafting in workshop

David Tane - Native Timber Crafts

From his workshop in the Coromandel, David salvages fallen native timbers to create functional art pieces. Each item highlights the natural beauty and character of New Zealand woods like kauri, rimu, and tōtara.

Studio founded: 2008

Specialty: Wooden bowls, serving boards, and sculptural pieces

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Glassblower working with hot glass

James Murray - Molten Art Glass

James creates vibrant glass pieces from his Nelson studio. His work is known for capturing the unique light quality of New Zealand through colorful vases, bowls, and ornaments.

Studio founded: 2012

Specialty: Hand-blown glass vessels and decorative items

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Jewelry maker crafting pendant

Sophie Chen - Pounamu Treasures

Based in Queenstown, Sophie creates contemporary jewelry using traditional New Zealand materials. Her work features pounamu (New Zealand jade), pāua shell, and sterling silver with modern designs.

Studio founded: 2016

Specialty: Contemporary pounamu jewelry and keepsakes

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Candle maker pouring wax

Olivia Parker - Native Scents

From her Auckland workshop, Olivia creates hand-poured soy candles with scents inspired by New Zealand's native flora. Her sustainable approach includes eco-friendly packaging and refill options.

Studio founded: 2018

Specialty: Botanical-inspired candles and diffusers

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Artist Spotlight

The Story of Aroha Te Whetu

Growing up in a family where weaving was passed down through generations, Aroha Te Whetu has transformed traditional Māori techniques into a contemporary art form. Her journey began when she inherited her grandmother's traditional loom and collection of patterns.

"Weaving connects me to my ancestors and to the land," says Aroha. "Each piece carries stories and traditions that I hope will be treasured for generations to come."

Her studio in rural Canterbury uses only ethically-sourced New Zealand merino wool, with natural dyes created from native plants. Aroha's work has been exhibited internationally, bringing Māori weaving traditions to global audiences.

Contact Aroha

Visit Artist Studios

Many of our featured artists open their studios to visitors. Experience the creative process firsthand and discover the stories behind handcrafted treasures. Contact us to arrange a studio visit.

Wellington ceramic studio

Wellington Studios

Visit Emma Wilson's Clay & Fire Ceramics workshop and see her signature glazing techniques in action. Studio tours available by appointment.

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Canterbury weaving workshop

Canterbury Workshop

Experience traditional weaving techniques at Aroha Te Whetu's rural studio. Workshops and demonstrations available for groups.

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Nelson glass studio

Nelson Glass Studio

Watch James Murray create stunning glass pieces at his Nelson hot shop. Public demonstrations held weekly during summer months.

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