In Conversation with Arapawa Blue Pearls — Ocean Soul Meets Boho Luxe
Where Ocean Stories Meet Timeless Craftsmanship
Beneath the surface of New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds, a quiet story unfolds — one of patience, beauty, and connection to the sea. I’m so thrilled to share this collaboration with Antonia at Arapawa Blue Pearls, a family-run business cultivating some of the rarest pearls in the world.
Together, we’ve brought our worlds together — the oceanic blues of Arapawa’s luminous paua pearls and the warm, natural tones of Montipi’s boho-luxe aesthetic. It’s a celebration of artistry, purpose, and design that honours both land and sea.
“From ocean depths to handcrafted elegance — a love letter to nature, creativity, and timeless design.”
Q&A with Antonia — Co-founder of Arapawa Blue Pearls
Tell us a little about yourself and how Arapawa Blue Pearls began…
I’m Antonia, and together with my husband Mike and our family, we run Arapawa Blue Pearls — New Zealand’s only land-based paua pearl farm. From our home on Arapaoa Island in the Marlborough Sounds, we’ve spent decades nurturing these rare blue pearls with care and patience. Every piece of jewellery we create carries not just the beauty of the ocean, but also our family’s story, love for conservation, and a deep connection to this special place.
“Every pearl holds not just beauty, but our family’s story and love for the ocean.”
What is a paua, and why are its pearls among the rarest in the world?
Paua (or abalone) is an extraordinary shell native to New Zealand, famous for its vibrant, iridescent colours that reflect the ocean’s light. Unlike traditional oysters, paua pearls are natural wonders that take years to form — no two are ever the same. Each pearl shines with its own blend of ocean blues, greens, and pinks, capturing the soul of the sea itself.
“Each paua pearl is a natural wonder — a living reflection of the ocean’s soul.”
What makes your jewellery so special and unique?
The story behind each pearl. It takes eight years of care and patience to grow a single blue pearl, and each one is truly one-of-a-kind. We run a zero-waste farm, hand-harvesting paua and returning baby paua to the sea to restore wild populations. Every design reflects our values of sustainability, family craftsmanship, and respect for New Zealand’s environment and heritage.
“We grow each pearl with patience and respect — it’s about giving back to the ocean that gives us so much.”
What is your bestselling product — and why do customers love it?
Our Starfish Necklace is a customer favourite because of the meaning it carries. The starfish is often seen as a symbol of resilience and renewal — a reminder to find your way, begin again, and stay strong through life’s tides. Many customers tell us they wear it as a talisman of strength, or gift it to loved ones embarking on a new chapter.
Discover the Starfish Necklace →
“The starfish symbolises resilience and renewal — strength through life’s tides.”
Arapawa Blue Pearls × Montipi — what’s special about this collaboration?
This collaboration is all about connection — between ocean and earth, between two brands that value authenticity and story. Our pearls embody the depth and colours of the sea, while Montipi’s designs evoke that grounded, sunlit sophistication of coastal living. Together, it’s a natural harmony — beauty with meaning.
“A connection between ocean and earth — beauty with meaning.”
Any styling tips for effortless summer looks?
Keep it simple — let the natural elements shine. I love the look of pearls against sun-kissed skin, paired with light linen or soft leather. The key is balance: organic textures, minimal layers, and a touch of shimmer.
“Pearls, linen, and a touch of glow — the effortless beauty of summer.”
Explore Arapawa Blue Pearls’ World
✨ Arapawa is gifting you 15% OFF their exquisite jewellery collection — arriving November 21st.
Use code COLLAB-15 at checkout.
Valid until November 25th, 11:59 pm (NZDT).
Shop Arapawa Blue Pearls → | Shop Montipi Designer Leather Bags →
From ocean depths to handcrafted elegance, this collaboration is a love letter to nature, creativity, and timeless design.
Both brands share the belief that beauty should carry meaning — and that what we wear should remind us of where we come from.
