New Zealand Ambergris - Your Questions Answered
I've answered the questions New Zealand finders ask me most. If yours isn't here, ask me directly.
Jump to Identification, Value or The selling process
I'm Nabil Valiulla, founder of Ambergris Canada, and these are the questions New Zealand finders ask me most: how to identify ambergris, what it's worth and how selling works. The assessment is free, done from photos, with no upfront costs, and I reply within 24 hours.
Identification
What does ambergris look like in New Zealand?
The same as anywhere in the world, but watch especially for anything that is not pumice. New Zealand beaches have a lot of pumice: volcanic, very light and porous, with no waxy feel. Real ambergris feels waxy and dense by comparison, leaves a faint residue when rubbed, and smells earthy or faintly of the sea when gently warmed. See my New Zealand identification guide.
I found something on a Northland / Coromandel / West Coast beach, could it be ambergris?
It could be. All of these regions have produced ambergris finds. Take clear photos and send them to me. Identification is free, and I'll give you an honest answer. See my New Zealand coastal guide.
Value
What is ambergris worth in New Zealand?
It depends on grade (colour), weight and purity. White ambergris is the most valuable, and grey is in strong demand. Even a small piece of good grey ambergris can be worth thousands of New Zealand dollars. I give honest market-rate valuations, with no lowballing. See my grading guide.
How is ambergris weighed and priced?
By weight, against current global market rates for its grade. I give you a full breakdown with your assessment.
Should I weigh my find before contacting you?
Yes, if you can. A kitchen scale is fine. Include the weight when you send your photos: it helps me give you a faster, more accurate first estimate.
The selling process
How do I sell ambergris in New Zealand?
Contact me through the assessment form or on WhatsApp, and send clear photos. I reply within 24 hours with an honest assessment. Payment is secure and transparent.
Do I need to ship the specimen to you first?
Not before you have an offer. The first assessment is done entirely from photos. Shipping only happens once we've agreed on terms and you're comfortable going ahead.
Do you buy ambergris from all regions of New Zealand?
Yes. I have suppliers across New Zealand, and location is not a barrier.
Are there any upfront costs?
None. The assessment is free. I earn when you earn.
Ready to find out what your find is worth?
Free assessment, with no obligation. I grade every piece myself within 24 hours.
- Call Nabil · Vancouver, Pacific time+1 (778) 713-5786
- Email Nabilcontact@ambergriscanada.com
My question isn't here. What do I do? Ask me on WhatsApp or by email. I answer every message myself.
See what I find, as I find it
I post new pieces, field trips and identification tips on Instagram.
Most of what washes up is driftwood and stone. I post the pieces that aren't, and how I tell them apart.
