Pounamu shepherd's whistle

Is a traditional, handcrafted whistle made from Pounamu (greenstone), often used in pastoral settings but holding deeper cultural significance in Māori tradition. While shepherd’s whistles are typically utilitarian tools, when crafted from Pounamu, they carry spiritual and symbolic meanings.

Characteristics of the Pounamu Shepherd’s Whistle

Made from New Zealand greenstone, often in shades of deep green, with smooth and polished surfaces.

Functionality: These whistles produce sharp, high-pitched sounds used by shepherds to communicate with their working dogs, guiding them during the herding of sheep or livestock.

Symbolism and Meaning

When a shepherd’s whistle is crafted from Pounamu, it takes on spiritual and cultural significance far beyond its practical use. In Māori culture, pounamu is regarded as taonga (a treasured item), and a whistle made from this sacred stone would be seen as an object that carries protective, spiritual, and ancestral meaning.

Connection to Nature: The whistle itself, being used outdoors in the natural world, symbolizes a deep connection to the land, animals, and the rhythms of nature. Pounamu, often seen as a symbol of the earth’s strength, reinforces this connection.

Mana and Kaitiakitanga: Pounamu is associated with Mana (spiritual power) and Kaitiakitanga (guardianship). A shepherd’s whistle made from Pounamu represents the responsibility of a shepherd to protect and guide not only their flock but also the land and all living things, in line with the Māori concept of stewardship over nature.

Measurements: Length 40 mm plus Width (across) 60 mm.

Packaging: - Black leather bound box with white inner pad.

Wax cord green adjustable to the wearer.

Blessing- This Pounamu has been blessed by the carver.  Tangaroa Whati