Haylie Fry is a self-taught carver with a deep connection to her whānau, creativity, and the spiritual qualities of pounamu.

With whakapapa rooted in Motueka, Tai Tokerau, and Te Tai Poutini, Haylie’s connection to te moana and te awa has guided her journey of exploring and working with the treasures of the natural world.

In 2022, Haylie became an authenticated Kawatiri woman, enabling her to source, carve, and sell authenticated New Zealand Ngāi Tahu pounamu. As a Pākehā woman, she describes this as a privilege and an honour, ensuring the pounamu she works with is sourced appropriately and with Māori blessing.

Before beginning each carving, Haylie undertakes karakia (prayer), grounding her wairua and physical being within the creative process while upholding respect for tikanga and the pounamu she works with.

Her practice is guided by the values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship), wairuatanga (spiritual connection), and whanaungatanga (connection), honouring the relationship between people, place, and the natural world.