Story: Rivers

Pounamu can still be found in the Arahura River. Ngāi Tahu people made a special expedition there to obtain this stone, now held at Te Papa, the national museum. Called Tongarewa, it is the spiritual kaitiaki (guardian) of the museum, and protects its mauri (life force). Visitors are encouraged to stroke the stone, gradually wearing away the rough outer layers to reveal the green colours beneath.