We made our way down south after my conference ended, headed to Hokitika. This is the heart of pounamu (jade) production for New Zealand. I stopped at the Museum and learned about the history of pounamu and the battles that were fought for this place; for pounamu and later for gold. I stopped by one of the shops and spoke with a Maori woman about the different pieces and styles and types of pounamu.
Right now, in the hotel room, I hear the sound of the surf. Things are so different here in Aotearoa, but also so much the same.
