Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere

Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere (Spirit of the forest)

Size: 1m x 1m

Contemporary Korowai - Kahu huruhuru Kakahu. Inspired by the colours of the forest floor.

Māori cloaks are most commonly worn on special occasions, whether a significant hui and coming together of people, or significant graduation, birthday or tangi. The cloaks hold stories of our history or whānau [family] and whakapapa [genealogy]. They’re held in the highest regard and worn with the highest form of respect, prestige, and honor.

Our Korowai are handmade in Auckland by machine stitching feathers onto a lined fabric base. The feather wrap around the front edge to complete the look. A traditional handwoven one takes many weeks to complete and costs significantly more. A modern Korowai offers better durability and more colours. Inspiration for the colour and designs from our local fauna and flora. We use beautiful farmed chicken and rooster feathers, some of which have been dyed to create the amazing colour range available in our Korowai selection. Our Korowai have drawstring ties so you can alter the width to fit the wearer. We try to keep a small stock but you should allow a week for production.

The taniko trim has also been woven from wool in NZ. This design is the Manaia and Wairua (spirit) design. It shows the Manaia with poutama (stairway to heaven) above and below. The Manaia is sitting in the Wharenui (ancestral meeting house) symbolizing the bringing of iwi, whanau, and cultures together.

Allow 2 weeks for manufacture.

The Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere is an extraordinary handcrafted cloak that embodies the spirit of the New Zealand wilderness. This exquisite piece of cultural heritage is a symbol of protection, warmth, and spiritual connection to the land. The Korowai is an iconic garment from the Māori culture, woven with the utmost respect for traditional methods, connecting the wearer with the sacredness of nature and their ancestors. Wairua O Te Ngahere, meaning "Spirit of the Forest," perfectly represents the deep-rooted relationship between the Māori people and the lush forests of Aotearoa.

Handcrafted with care and attention to detail, each Korowai is made from premium natural materials such as muka (flax fiber) and feathers, offering not only an exceptional cultural experience but also a sustainable product that carries the wisdom of the land. Whether worn during ceremonial occasions, special events, or displayed as a unique piece of art, this Korowai captures the essence of the forest, the spirit of the natural world, and the ancestral lineage of the Māori people.

This Korowai offers a beautiful balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, making it an ideal addition to your home, wardrobe, or cultural collection. It reflects the sacredness of the New Zealand forests, offering both physical and spiritual warmth to the wearer. Whether you are looking to embrace your heritage or wish to gift someone with a meaningful and unique piece, the Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere is the perfect representation of Māori culture and connection to the natural world.

Key Points:

• Handcrafted Excellence: Every Korowai is carefully handmade by skilled artisans, ensuring the highest quality craftsmanship.
  
• Cultural Significance: Represents the Māori connection to nature and ancestral traditions, serving as both a garment and spiritual symbol.
  
• Premium Materials: Made using muka (flax fiber) and feathers, sourced sustainably from the New Zealand environment.
  
• Versatile Use: Perfect for ceremonial purposes, as a meaningful gift, or as a cultural art piece to display in your home.
  
• Symbol of Protection: Traditionally used as a protective garment, symbolizing warmth, strength, and security.
  
• Unique and Limited Edition: Each Korowai is one of a kind, with subtle variations that make every piece special.
  

Benefits:

• Cultural Connection: Wearing or owning a Korowai connects you to the rich history and culture of the Māori people, grounding you in their respect for nature and ancestry.
  
• Spiritual Warmth: The Wairua O Te Ngahere offers not only physical warmth but also spiritual comfort, providing a sense of protection and connection to the earth.
  
• Sustainability: Crafted from eco-friendly materials like muka and feathers, this product supports sustainable practices that honor the environment.
  
• Aesthetic Appeal: The intricate design and craftsmanship make this Korowai a stunning piece of wearable art, adding beauty and culture to any setting.
  
• Exclusivity: With each Korowai being individually handmade, you can be assured that you are acquiring a unique, limited-edition piece that carries deep cultural significance.
  
• Ceremonial Significance: Ideal for Māori ceremonies, cultural events, or gifting for special occasions, the Korowai holds powerful symbolic meaning in Māori traditions.
  

Why You Should Choose This Korowai:

The Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere is not just a garment; it is a tangible connection to New Zealand's spiritual heritage and natural beauty. Choosing this piece means embracing a piece of living history, a work of art that has been lovingly crafted to represent the bond between the Māori people and the forests they revere. With its blend of practicality, tradition, and deep cultural roots, this Korowai is an ideal choice for those who seek to honor their heritage, celebrate Māori culture, or simply add an extraordinary piece to their collection.

Whether for ceremonial use, as a collector’s item, or as a gift that carries both beauty and meaning, the Korowai speaks of warmth, connection, and protection. By choosing the Wairua O Te Ngahere, you are selecting a product that embodies not only the craftsmanship of New Zealand but also the spirit of the land itself. Made with respect, love, and careful attention, this Korowai is sure to provide a lifetime of meaning and connection.

Conclusion:

The Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere is much more than a traditional cloak; it is an emblem of the Māori people's deep spiritual connection to the forests, the land, and their ancestors. Every Korowai is a unique creation, meticulously handcrafted from natural materials to offer protection, warmth, and a sense of belonging. It embodies centuries of tradition and is designed to stand the test of time. Owning or gifting this Korowai is an invitation to connect with the spiritual and natural worlds, creating a bond that transcends generations.

For those who wish to honor their heritage or acquire a beautiful, meaningful piece of art, the Korowai - Wairua O Te Ngahere is a perfect choice. Wear it, display it, and experience the spirit of the forest with every glance.