Fears pounamu black market is increasing
Iwi leaders on the west coast of the South Island fear gangs are cashing in on a growing online black market for pounamu. While the pounamo black market isn't new, it's believed the trade for New Zealand's native greenstone has reached a level not seen before. Lisa Tumahai is the kaiwhakahaere (chairperson) of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu.