The Blue Pearl Journal

In Conversation with Morgan from Montipi
  Celebrating Craftsmanship, Connection and Coastal Elegance Across the sea, in the heart of Australia, lives a boutique that shares our love for meaningful craftsmanship and timeless design — Montipi. Founded by Morgan, Montipi curates elegant bags and accessories that reflect individuality,...
Growing Up in the Heart of Marlborough Sounds History
Whaling Station Opening 2010 Toni Halliday (née Cormack) sat down with interviewer Loreen Brehaut in January 2006 to share a vivid oral history of life in Tory Channel, New Zealand, a remote part of Marlborough Sounds history steeped in tradition,...
The Only Pāua Pearl Farm Tour in New Zealand
  Nestled deep within the Marlborough Sounds, surrounded by calm turquoise waters and lush native bush, lies a place where ocean and artistry meet,  Arapawa Blue Pearls, home to the only New Zealand pearl farm open for guided visitors. This...
Arapawa's Commitment to Marine Conservation and Sustainable Pearl Farming
  Ocean Stewards: Arapawa's Commitment to Marine Conservation and Sustainable Pearl Farming Most people see pearls as objects of beauty. At Arapawa Blue Pearls, we see them as something more, a commitment to the ocean itself. Since our family began...
The Ultimate Guide to Mabe Paua Pearl Shapes: Oval, Round, and Teardrop Designs from New Zealand
  You're holding an Arapawa Blue Pearl, and it's like holding a tiny miracle that took four years to perfect its act. That's longer than most people can keep a houseplant alive! But here's the really mind-blowing part – before...
The Untold Story of New Zealand Paua
  When you think of New Zealand's natural wonders, your mind might drift to the All Blacks' legendary haka, snow-capped Southern Alps, or pristine fjords. But beneath the waves of our wild coastal waters lies another iconic treasure—the mighty pāua...
Leading from the Ocean: Jacob represents our Paua farm at Aquaculture NZ’s Evolving Leaders Hui
  Strong leadership in Aquaculture is vital to the future of New Zealand’s Blue Economy. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to share that this month Jacob Radon the Leader of our Pāua stock and quiet force behind our operations was selected...
Seasonal Shores: Childhood at the Perano Whaling Station
In 2007, Lorna Wratt (née Gardiner) sat down with interviewer Loreen Brehaut to reflect on her to reflect on her unique childhood, a seasonal life shaped by the rhythm of the Perano Whaling Station and the remote beauty of the...
The 8-Year Glow Up: How Pearls Have More Patience Than People
In a world where we expect same-day delivery, binge-watch entire seasons in a weekend, and lose our minds if a webpage takes more than three seconds to load, our blue pearls are out here living their best slow life. They're...
A Unique Slice of Marlborough Whaling History
The Marlborough Sounds - Toni Cormack Slides  In a quiet home in Renwick, Kenneth Robert Gardiner shared a vivid recollection of his childhood with interviewer Loreen Brehaut in 2007. A seasonal community of whalers, wives, and children made their way...
Going on a Holiday: How Two Workaholics Finally Discovered Vacation
When Pearl Farmers Take Their First Real Break in 18 Years (Plot Twist: It's Still All About Pearls) Their last holiday was in 2007 So here's the thing about being completely obsessed with pearl farming: You've spent nearly a quarter-century...
Are paua endangered? Why They Need Our Help Now
Standing on the rocky shores of New Zealand's coastline at low tide, the retreating water reveals nature's hidden treasures scattered across the dark rocks. A sudden flash of iridescent blue-green catches your eye among the seaweed and barnacles, something infinitely...
Gold Pearl Necklace: The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand's Rare Abalone Treasures
At Arapawa Blue Pearls, we've spent years perfecting the art of turning ocean treasures into jewellery that makes people stop mid-conversation. There's something profoundly satisfying about watching someone hold one of our gold pearl necklace pieces for the first time,...
Where Snails Become Superstars: Pearl Farm Tours Are Back!
Hey there, fellow adventurers and jewellery enthusiasts! The pearl farm tours are officially back in business, which means our little slice of aquatic paradise on Arapaoa Island is once again buzzing with visitors who've made the journey to witness what...
The Ultimate Guide to Paua Shell Jewellery: New Zealand's Ocean Treasure
At Arapawa Blue Pearls, we've spent years perfecting the art of transforming New Zealand's most stunning ocean treasures into jewellery that captures hearts worldwide. Here's everything you need to know about paua shell jewellery, straight from the experts who live...
Gold vs Platinum: The Ultimate Jewellery Showdown
Picture this: you're standing in a jewellery store, staring at two nearly identical pieces of pearl jewellery NZ has to offer, and the only difference is that one's set in gold, the other in platinum. It's like choosing between Batman...
Paua for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know
New to paua? You’re in for something distinctly Aotearoa. With its striking blue-green shell and rich, oceanic flavour, paua is one of New Zealand’s most prized delicacies, equally celebrated in fine cuisine and fine jewellery. Whether it’s tucked into a...
What Makes a Blue Pearl Unique: The Story Behind Nature’s Rarest Gem
As the golden leaves of autumn begin to fall, we’re wrapping up another wonderful tourist season here at Arapawa Island. Sure, the boats are still pulling into the bay and the coffee is still brewing by the gallon, but no...
Hook Necklace: A Symbol of Strength, Prosperity, and Connection
At Arapawa Blue Pearls, we believe that jewellery is more than just an accessory; it’s a story. Each piece we create carries not only the natural beauty of our blue pearl NZ treasures but also the rich traditions and deep...
Growing Up in the Heart of Marlborough Sounds History
Whaling Station Opening 2010 Toni Halliday (née Cormack) sat down with interviewer Loreen Brehaut in January 2006 to share a vivid oral history of life in Tory Channel, New Zealand, a remote part of Marlborough Sounds history steeped in tradition,...
Bridal jewellery & wedding rings NZ: everything you need to know
Planning your wedding involves many important decisions, from the venue to the dress, and of course, the jewellery that will complete your look. The right pieces can add elegance, sparkle, and personality to your special day. Whether you're searching for...