About Us

About Us

Carving Masters Aotearoa is a small whānau business based in Marton, built on a shared passion for whakairo — the traditional Māori art of carving. For us, carving is a way to honour our culture, connect with our roots, and keep the stories of our tūpuna alive in a way that feels real and relevant today.

We started this kaupapa because we believe whakairo should be seen, shared, and passed on. It’s more than just decorative work — it holds meaning, carries whakapapa, and reflects the values and identity of our people. We wanted to create something we could stand behind as a whānau, something that brings our skills, creativity, and heritage together in one space.

At Carving Masters Aotearoa, we work with wheua, sourced locally and pounamu and Kōhatu sourced from Te Waipounmau to craft taonga that speak to both tradition and individuality. Whether it’s a custom piece or a design inspired by old motifs, everything we make is done with care, pride, and attention to detail.

Our goal is simple: to keep the art of whakairo alive, to make it accessible, and to inspire others to value the beauty and depth of Māori design. We’re proud to do this as a whānau, and we’re grateful to everyone who supports our mahi along the way.

“Mā te ringa raupā, ka ora ai te iwi.”
Through hard-working hands, the people will thrive.