GAVINBRUNTON

KAWAU ISLAND

Pohutukawa wooden Platter No741

$960.00

In stock

Size

,

Diameter

555mm

Height

110mm

Wood

Pohutakawa

Functional Rating

5

A very large Pōhutukawa platter raised on three carved wooden feet. Made from a substantial tree brought down in a severe windstorm, the timber developed beautiful rippling and organic movement as it dried, giving the platter a distinctive texture that complements the strong grain patterns.

Functional Rating?

The Functional Rating runs from 1 to 5 and is my way of giving you an idea of how practical a bowl or platter is for everyday use.

Each piece sits somewhere on this scale depending on factors such as the type of wood, the smoothness and easy clean finish of the interior surface, or whether it features artistic elements like natural voids or inclusions.

1 – Display Piece Only
Solely suitable as an art or display piece. May be delicate or has features that make it unsuitable for kitchen use.

2 – Lightly Functional
Can hold large dry items such as fruit or bread, but may have large voids or other inclusions.

3 – Moderately Functional
Good for fruit or leafy salads. May include some natural voids but remains robust overall.

4 – Highly Functional
Ideal for daily salads or general serving. Water-tight but may be finely turned or have a natural edge.

5 – Fully Functional
Suitable for nearly everything, including hot foods. These are the workhorses — strong, durable, and ready for everyday use.

Wooden Bowls – Handcrafted in New Zealand

Beautifully handcrafted functional wooden bowls made from sustainably sourced New Zealand native timbers. Perfect as fruit bowls, salad bowls, serving platters, or timeless display pieces.  

 

Provenance & Authenticity

Every bowl is engraved with:

  • My name (Gavin Brunton)
  • The year it was made
  • The type of wood used
  • Its unique bowl number

For example:  Gavin Brunton – 2025 – Pohutukawa – No. 753

This way, You can see exactly where it was made, who crafted it, and which timber it came from.  

 

The story behind each bowl

Every wooden bowl is made by hand by me, Gavin Brunton on Kawau Island. I work with storm-damaged and sustainably sourced native timbers, carefully chosen for their strength, character, and beauty. Each piece is shaped to celebrate the natural features of the tree, allowing its history and mana to live on in your home.  

 

Made to last

All my bowls and platters are made to stand the test of time. Crafted with the quality and care, so one day it can become a family heirloom.  

 

Why choose my wooden bowls?

  • Functional and versatile – Ideal for use as fruit bowls, salad bowls, popcorn bowls, or wooden platters for everyday dining and entertaining.
  • Unique character – No two bowls are ever the same; each one tells the story of the tree it came from.
  • Durable craftsmanship – Native hardwoods are selected for longevity and withstanding daily knocks, developing a rich, natural patina over time.
  • Safe, natural finish – Oils penetrate to protect from within, while waxes form a micro-porous shield against moisture and wear.
  • Functional rating system – Every bowl is given a “functional rating,” so you’ll know whether it’s made for daily kitchen use or as a sculptural centrepiece.
  • Sustainably sourced – All my bowls are made by hand with wood that is sourced locally,  from trees which have been damaged in storms or are being pruned for other reasons.
  • Generational longevity – With proper care, these bowls will last a lifetime and hopefully become cherished heirlooms.

 

Caring for your wooden bowl

Wood does need a little love from time to time to keep it looking its best. To keep yours looking fantastic:

  • Wash by hand and dry immediately.
  • Never soak, microwave, or run through the dishwasher.
  • Avoid letting fruit decay in the bowl.
  • Re-oil regularly – this keeps the wood nourished, enhances its natural sheen, and makes the surface more non-stick and easier to clean.
  • Every bowl comes with detailed care instructions, so you can enjoy your piece every day with peace of mind.

 

More than just a bowl

Each piece I make is more than functional, crafted with intention and respect for the tree it came from. Whether you’re serving family meals or displaying it proudly in your living room, your bowl carries a little of New Zealand’s native forests into your home.