A Vision of Provision.

Nurturing the Futures of our Children

I envision a world where weavers influence purpose-driven design, sustainability, and cultural tradition to come together and empower individuals, allowing them to transform creative visions into reality.

My mission is to advocate for 'Purposeful Design'—blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to promote sustainability and Mātauranga Māori. I strive to empower individuals by providing knowledge and resources tailored to their unique creative goals.

I am committed to integrity and excellence. Specialising in a range of creative services, I offer personalised solutions that focus on attention to detail and expertise. Together, I believe we can shape a world where creativity thrives, and individuals make a meaningful impact.

He whakamānawa nā te ātaahua Tamāhine nō Papatuanuku

KIMBERLEY MAAKA represents the nurturing of skills and knowledge passed down through generations, inspired by my love for my daughters and Papatūānuku (Mother Nature).

www.kimberleymaaka.com

Welcome to my world of sincere gratitude, where I continually create pathways home.

Harakeke. Plant. Hair.

A conscious choice for environmentally conscious consumers

Harakeke Plant Hair symbolises the nurturing of skills and knowledge passed down to me, inspired by my love for my beautiful daughters and Papatūānuku (Mother Nature).

Harakeke (Phormium tenax), native to Aotearoa (New Zealand), is superior to other plant fibers in terms of length, diameter, and tensile strength. Muka, the prepared fiber of Harakeke, is harvested from its leaves and offers distinct characteristics among different cultivars. These fibers provide abundant advantages, making them highly functional and purposeful in various uses.

Phormium tenax plays a vital role in multiple ecological communities especially amongst Māoricx. It serves as a food source, has medicinal uses, and is commonly employed in soil restoration, waterway rehabilitation, and revegetation projects.

Master weavers, known as Kairaranga, are skilled artisans with exclusive access to the most esteemed resources. The specific cultivar used in our Weaving Hair Bundles undergoes specialised processing, tailored for protective styling. The crimp-like nature of the fibers enhances flexibility during styling, while the mechanical properties in diameter and length reinforce natural hair, ensuring a secure hold and extended wear. This unique tensile strength offers a tight grip on your natural hair while allowing it to also breathe.

Designed to be Treasured Bundles!

• Superior quality with a unique origin

• Sustainable harvesting practices and eco-friendly nature

• Biodegradable Harakeke fibers

• Reusable for 3+ style transformations

• Easily repurposed into new extensions

• The longer you wear them, the silkier they become, blending with your own natural hair.

Designed to be Treasured.

Introducing Harakeke Weaving Hair:

The ultimate eco-friendly, hypoallergenic hair adornment solution. Crafted from 100% New Zealand Harakeke (Phormium tenax), it's versatile, reusable, and luxurious that not only enhance but also preserve our precious Earth.

Using the exquisite muka fiber harvested from its leaf, we meticulously and seamlessly weave together the realms of nature and beauty to create sustainable natural hair adornments.

Harakeke Hair provides an exquisite sanctuary for conscious consumers who comprehend the profound impact of our choices and value the harmony between our consumption and the well-being of our environment.

​Designed to be Treasured Weaving Hair for your favourite plaited styles.

• Hypoallergenic & Versatile: Suitable for all, it's reusable, easy to handle, and adaptable to various styling preferences.

• Comfort & Flexibility: Experience incredible bounce and stretch with feathered ends for added comfort.

• No Pre-Soaking Required: Ready for installation, it can be styled like your own hair without the need for pre-soaking.

• Ethical & Sustainable: Manufactured ethically with a focus on sustainability, preserving biodiversity, and supporting eco-friendly practices.

• Nature-Inspired Design: Nature's influence is reflected in every detail, from its plant-based elegance to its seamless integration with natural hair.

• Longevity & Quality: Enjoy long-lasting, luxurious wear with fibers that become softer over time.

• Biodegradable & Eco-Friendly: Contributing to a sustainable environment, it's biodegradable and easily repurposed for new extensions.

• Heat Resistant & Memory: Withstands heat up to 160°C/350°F while retaining its shape for effortless styling.

• Authentic & Unique: Treasured by Maori culture, its superior quality and unique origin make it a standout choice.

Nature’s Cost.

Understanding Nature's Cost

At KIMBERLEY MAAKA, we believe in transparency and accountability. We recognise that every product we offer has an impact on the environment.

Let's delve into the nature's cost added to our Harakeke woven hair extensions:

Sustainable Sourcing: Our Harakeke fibers are sourced from responsibly managed Pā Harakeke plantations where biodiversity is preserved, and ecosystem health is prioritised. By supporting sustainable cultivation practices, we minimise the environmental footprint of our raw materials.

Low-Impact Processing: We employ eco-friendly processing methods that minimise water usage and energy consumption during the conversion of Harakeke fibers into hair extensions. Our commitment to reducing waste and pollution is evident at every stage of production.

Biodegradable Packaging: We package our Harakeke Hair extensions using biodegradable materials were possible, reducing the burden on landfills and ecosystems. Our aim is to ensure that even the packaging aligns with our sustainability values.

Carbon Footprint: We continuously assess and minimise the carbon footprint of our products, including transportation emissions and using environmental elements (wind, rain, sun) available daily to our use. By optimising logistics and prioritising local sourcing wherever possible, we strive to minimise our contribution to climate change.

End-of-Life Considerations: When it's time to part ways with your Harakeke Hair extensions, rest assured that they can be composted or recycled, closing the loop on their life cycle and minimising environmental impact.

Why It Matters: By understanding and acknowledging nature's cost, we empower our customers to make informed choices. By choosing Harakeke Bundles from KIMBERLEY MAAKA, you're not just investing in quality beauty products; you're supporting sustainable practices that protect your well-being and our planet for future generations to come.

Only the BEST! Hair from the Heavens

Sustainably sourced & harvested

Embrace a sustainable lifestyle with our New Zealand Harakeke Plant Hair. Thoughtfully sourced and harvested, we prioritize the well-being of people and the planet. Our eco-friendly products are non-toxic and fully biodegradable, ensuring a positive impact on the environment. Join us in making a difference, one beautiful strand at a time.

Proudly designed & crafted in New Zealand / Aotearoa

Experience the essence of Aotearoa / New Zealand with our beautifully designed Harakeke Plant Hair extensions. Crafted with care, each strand is infused with aroha (love), reflecting the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of our land. Discover exceptional quality and eco-conscious craftsmanship as we celebrate the spirit of Aotearoa in every strand. Together, let’s journey towards sustainability through love and artistry.

Historical & Cultural considerations

Harvesting Harakeke in New Zealand is guided by deep historical and cultural values. Rooted in tikanga (Māori customs), karakia (sacred prayers), and kaitiakitanga (guardianship), these practices honor Māori traditions and strengthen our connection to the natural world. By upholding these customs, we preserve the sacred value of Harakeke while nurturing both cultural heritage and environmental stewardship.

Harakeke Weaving Hair.

Elevate your presence with Harakeke and discover the key to immediate volume and versatile restorative styling through our (Limited) extraordinary Hair Weaving Bundles. Craft your unique look from root to tip within the comfort of your own space, effortlessly blending lengths and textures for a seamless, natural appearance. Each bundle is approx 360g and has allowance added for shedding and restyling again later. Each bundle has a  respectable length range between 80cm - 200cm, ensuring you have the flexibility to create the desired length and fullness for your style. Whether you're aiming for dramatic length or subtle enhancement, our bundles offer the perfect solution. With the option to restyle bundles after 1st wear, you can easily customise your look to suit any occasion or mood. Transform your hair in minutes and embrace the freedom to express yourself with confidence. Experience the difference with Harakeke Plant Hair Weaving Bundles and unlock endless possibilities for stunning, salon-worthy hair from home. 

Each bundle is 360g and range between 80cm - 200cm You will need approximately 1 bundle (depending on installation) to achieve the above look!

The Importance of a Name.

Harakeke, scientifically known as Phormium tenax, is the New Zealand flax plant at the heart of Māori traditional weaving (toi raranga).

Did you know? 🤓

Harakeke is not flax! Despite being commonly referred to as flax, Harakeke is often mistaken for Northern European common flax, though they come from entirely different plant families 🌱. A quick Google search will reveal that Harakeke is a monocotyledon species, while flax is a dicotyledon species. Harakeke, or Phormium tenax, belongs to the lily plant family.

This distinction is important because it challenges the misconception in fashion and textiles that Harakeke and linen are the same. While they are different plants, both share similar mechanical characteristics and tensile properties, which have influenced their use in textiles.

Bridging these perspectives opens up opportunities for creativity and innovation in the fields of textile and digital design.

Harakeke has the potential to support our modern environments, just as it sustained life for my ancestors when they first arrived in Aotearoa/New Zealand by canoe and ship centuries ago.

As technological advancements continue to emerge, there is growing potential for more ecological and bio-friendly solutions. Digital technologies, in particular, are paving the way for sustainable production practices for the future.

Value.

100% NZ Designed & Made

• Nature-Inspired and Compatible Design: Nature's influence is woven into every step of the design process, using sustainable, non-toxic materials to create products that are both eco-friendly and safe.

• Plant-Based Elegance: Crafted from the indigenous NZ plant Phormium tenax.

• Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable, contributing to a sustainable environment.

• Biodiversity Support: Aids in preserving biodiversity within natural ecosystems.

• Featherweight: Lightweight for comfortable wear.

• Authentic Texture: Boasts a natural texture for a genuine look.

• Seamless Installation: Effortlessly blends with your natural hair for a enjoyable process.

• Reuse & Adjust: Can be reused and adjusted for versatile styling. Use natural products for a softer finish.

• Low Maintenance: Travel ready with protective styling.

• Heat Resistant: Withstands heat up to 160°C/350°F.

• Exceptional Memory: Easy to twist and apply, retains its shape.

Love Your Hair!

Caring for Your Hair While You Have Extensions

Personal haircare is crucial when you have extensions to prevent matting or tangling. Daily brushing is essential for maintaining your hair's health. Stimulating hair growth is beneficial, and you can do so by exfoliating your scalp with an exfoliator or gentle brushing. Take the opportunity to nurture your hair's well-being. Begin with a clarifying shampoo, followed by a nourishing mask. Allow the mask to rest and work its magic. This preparation ensures that your hair is strong and healthy enough to withstand the effects of heat styling and the addition of extensions, while also making maintenance easier.

I highly recommend incorporating natural products into your hair care routine, such as Siren Spirals Curly Hair Mask from Bayfield High School Graduates Beth and Lani.

Te Kāuru Hou—a new leaf: Processing Harakeke (Phormium Tenax) for WholeGarment® Knitting Technology - Shima Seiki

 Kimberley Alexander-Maaka 

September 2019 

Auckland University of Technology School of Art and Design 

A thesis submitted to Auckland University of Technology in the fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Design 

Supervisors: 

Andrew Withell 

Natalie Robertson 

 Ngāti Kahungunu / Ngāi Tahu / Ngāpuhi 

ABSTRACT

Keywords: Harakeke (NZ Flax), Phormium Tenax, Shima Seiki WholeGarment®, Innovative Technology, Plant Fibre, Te Ao Māori / European, Environment, Sustainable, Productivity, Textile / Fibre Technology, Identity.

There is demand for high-quality natural fabrics, which are cultivated and transformed by processes that are environmentally and culturally sustainable. In response to this demand, and underpinned by Te Ao Māori worldviews and environmental values, this research meticulously questions how can harakeke advance technology while maintaining her integrity? The development of new techniques and innovations are explored to transcend harakeke (phormium tenax) from harvest to a digitally knitted structure — something that has not been achieved before.

The research specifically explores analogue (hand) and digital processes (WholeGarment® digital knitting technologies), the relationship of European sciences and Māori harakeke knowledges, and the interconnections between Raranga (weaving) and the textile design. The bridging of these areas give rise to opportunities for experimentation, creativity and innovation. This includes the development of new techniques for the successful processing and spinning of muka fibre using innovative binding solutions, combing and wave-set processes, and the knotting of fibre ends to create a fine yarn for further processing using digital knitting, as well as simple processes to soften the fibre after knitting.

The findings demonstrate how techniques from the past and present can be synthesized to create new and unconventional textiles. They also show how Te Ao Māori worldviews can augment and extend scientific knowledge, and when integrated with design, can transform natural plant resources into innovative, sustainable materials and products.

PREFACE

I am of Māori and European heritage which requires navigating across and between two cultural worlds. Raised in Aotearoa between the Bay of Islands and East Coast communities, my cultural and industrious farm upbringing are integral parts of my identity and commitment to innovative growth. Such diversification of place allowed me to discover potential collaborative pathways within a digital practice using valued traditional knowledge and harakeke.

Kingsclere Farm, Okaihau, NZ. Photo credit: Whanau archives. 1980s.

As a young child, my maternal Ngāpuhi grandfather Graham Alexander took me with him to many marae hui as he took an active role in Māori land rights. On the marae, I would be left with the nannies and aunties to learn my way around. At other times, I would go to Nuhaka with my father’s side of the whanau. There amongst my Rakaipaaka and Kahungunu whanaunga I absorbed knowledge about our cultural arts heritage from an early age. My great-grandmother Heni Te Kauru was our Kairaranga (master weaver), drawing on the rich environmental resource of fine harakeke that Nuhaka and its swampy surrounds provided.

Waihou Valley, Bay of Islands, Northland. 

Kaihiki Bay, Bay of Islands, NZ.

The lands of the North were also renowned for harakeke. Harakeke was on the farm I grew up on in the Waihou Valley, Okaihau, Bay of Islands. My mother lives there today, with our pā harakeke that has nurtured this research. This heritage has provided me with both tacit knowledge of the whenua and harakeke, and something else intangible — a passion for harakeke and its potential passed down through my whakapapa. It is this passion that has driven this project, a fascination for the properties of harakeke and its possibilities, and a vision that this fibre could be spun into a fine thread for use in the textile industry in new ways.

2016 Design concept: Our spiritual connection with (Papatūānuku). 

As an indigenous designer, I aim to formulate conceptual and material design processes that are not detrimental to Papatūānuku (Earth Mother). This thesis considers the impact textile structures have on our environment, by using a sustainable approach to design. My tenure at AUT City Campus has allowed me to be able to work with some of the latest cutting-edge technologies such as 3D scanning, 3D printing, 3D knitting, laser processing and e-textile techniques that have enabled this practice. In these contexts, I believe harakeke has the potential to provide a biodegradable product that is supportive to a sustainable system long-term.

For me, in this research project, everything leads back to the land and the impact the textile industry has on the land. This project emerges from an early hunch that harakeke fibre could be adapted to the 3-D printing world and digital machine knitting technologies. I wanted to combine technology and craft and how bringing the two together could make better products. Our indigenous knowledge can be harnessed to produce the present-day solutions we are searching for. This understanding aligns with Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s statement ‘binding ancient genealogies with contemporary realities’.[1] Te Ao Māori link Atua and humankind together with a common genealogy that spiritually binds us.

Māori frameworks for ‘Responsible Innovation’

Māori frameworks are deeply rooted in spirituality, unity with our constant changing environments and socio-political concerns. They serve as cornerstones or guiding posts from a result of the exploits and lessons learnt from a genesis of stories, traditions and histories retained by each iwi over centuries. Māori use unique oral systems scripted in ancient Whakapapa that captures the essence and spirituality of humankind working together in unison with Atua. To understand Māori you must understand the mechanisms and characteristics of Whakapapa which guide us.

Today devotion is still given to respective Atua in many forms and shapes. Customs are repeated sacredly and respectfully, understanding we are ‘Spirit’ first in the way we recognise those who teach, care, create and lead — acknowledging their gifts and the source of their skills and inspiration.

One dimension of Māori is protecting the environment and preserving her abundance for our future prosperity using basic principals through signs and symbols intricately and strategically woven throughout the universe. Māori act as caretakers and guides to bridge ancient knowledge lost in earlier civilizations forward, towards maintaining a balance between dimensions.

When advancing any new scientific innovation with super intelligent eco-systems such as ‘Nature’ it is important that maintaining her integrity is at the heart of every new project we do. It is not the activity itself that brings meaning to our environment but the intentional value we give our world.

The universe responds in a unique way depending on who is observing it.

Whether we tap into spirituality or established science we are tapping into the same frequency source of the cosmic vibration (mauri; life-force) given from Io.

Understanding the importance of working simultaneously with our environments is our code of conduct for our ‘currency in life’.

Overview

What is ‘responsible innovation’ at the personal, project, organisational and community-levels? Who decides and who should decide what is responsible?

What is ‘responsible’?

Our moral compass, a code of ethics within us, guides us to act uprightly, with a deep commitment to what is morally right. It reflects how we feel about ourselves and how dedicated we are to responding from a place of love and compassion—not out of obligation, but because it’s an authentic desire to do so.

Integrity is the foundation of our actions, thoughts, and words. It’s a devotion to honouring both our conduct and surroundings, celebrating the small things that enrich our lives. It’s understanding the miracle of life, finding purpose, and building resilience in the face of challenges, whether personal or societal. It’s the courage to fully embrace life, free from fear, so we can grow in this shared experience.

At its core, responsible living is as simple as caring for our own health and well-being. It’s the ability to make sound decisions, sustain ourselves, and navigate life with clarity. It is the license to act spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally in alignment with our values. It’s the desire to improve, take pride in our identity, and honour the legacy of our Tūpuna.

Responsibility also lies in our ability to discern right from wrong, making wise choices and taking accountability for our actions. It’s being present to ourselves and others, always striving to make decisions that reflect our core beliefs. The process of questioning our perspectives and challenging what we accept shapes who we are and how we behave in the world.

Ultimately, responsibility means having the knowledge to act appropriately, understanding what we can control, and being accountable for our actions.

Responsible innovation’ at a personal level means thinking beyond oneself—it’s about caring for both yourself and your environment. It involves not just gaining new knowledge, but also considering how to apply it appropriately. Innovation enables us to explore new possibilities within old concepts, using an advanced perspective that enhances our ability to embrace new ideas while creating a safe environment that upholds responsibility.

By embracing responsibility, we foster action, confidence, and the creation of positive, safe environments that serve as secure foundations for our communities to thrive and adapt to change. While we possess the infrastructure to support progress, the missing piece is often a deeper spiritual understanding that unifies and strengthens us.

What is Responsible Innovation at;

Project Level?

The opportunity lies in creating self-sustaining systems grounded in core principles and values. These strengths offer solutions that respect natural processes, maintaining a seamless and harmonious flow of production without exploitation.

Organisational Level?

The collective efforts of the entire team shape Kaupapa Māori frameworks, enabling us to pursue what we love while staying true to our values. By defining regional qualities and fostering leadership through education, we emphasize the responsibility to act on new knowledge and drive meaningful change at every level. Through an interdisciplinary and structured curriculum, we facilitate the innovative transfer of knowledge, paving the way for progress and transformation.

Community-levels?

Responsible innovation at the community level involves integrating Tikanga—cultural practices and values—into the process of innovation, ensuring that new ideas and solutions align with the needs and well-being of the community. It requires creating change that respects cultural traditions, promotes inclusivity, and strengthens connections among people. By embracing Tikanga, responsible innovation fosters a collective sense of responsibility, where the community is actively engaged in shaping solutions that benefit everyone. It is about finding ways to innovate that are not only effective but also culturally appropriate, ensuring that progress honours and sustains the values, practices, and traditions that form the foundation of the community.

Who decides and who should decide what is responsible? (…. vs who takes responsibility?

Who decides?

Cultural Values vs Cultural services.

The distinction between cultural values and cultural services is crucial when considering responsible innovation. There are different levels of management and governance, and Whakapapa provides the wisdom to guide our tikanga, ensuring accountability throughout our practices. For example, Tane, the God of the Forest, cares for the land, trees, and plants, while Tangaroa, the God of the Sea, is responsible for the fish. This illustrates the importance of understanding our roles and the boundaries within our environments. In today’s digital world, ignorance is no longer an option; it is essential to navigate innovation with a deeper understanding of these cultural frameworks.

Innovation should be seen as a partnership—one that provides the vehicle for the meaningful change we seek. As social and tribal beings, humans rely on our tribes and communities for safety, support, and identity. The tikanga of each region outlines how we, as kaitiaki (guardians), maintain the sustenance necessary for our existence. Tangata Whenua possess the deep knowledge of the unique characteristics of each region, guiding us in our collective responsibility.

Present-day challenges can be measured by the standards of our shared responsibilities in preserving society. Innovation is an opportunity to improve upon the past, building on our love for the natural world. However, many existing research models fail to consider the collective well-being of those living and working on the land. As innovation becomes a trend, communities are often cut off from accessing their own resources, and those who should benefit end up paying the true cost of progress. Therefore, it is crucial to seek permission from the appropriate kaitiaki or tangata whenua before moving forward, fostering trust and respect in any partnership.

What frameworks should guide responsible innovation, including with Māori communities, e.g. tikanga-based frameworks, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, etc?

Responsible innovation, especially in partnership with Māori communities, should be guided by frameworks rooted in tikanga, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the principles of guardianship and stewardship. These frameworks acknowledge the role of Iwi (tribes) as custodians and oathkeepers of whakapapa and tikanga, ensuring that cultural values are preserved and respected in the process of innovation. Māori knowledge is not only learned in classrooms but through hands-on experiences with the land, as embodied in the concept of wananga—where people learn directly from the environment. Innovation must be rooted in action, as knowledge not applied through practice can be lost over time. By engaging with these frameworks, innovation can honor both the traditional wisdom and the needs of the future, ensuring that progress is both meaningful and sustainable.

What are existing and suggested practices, issues, successes and failures for responsible innovation from a range of different perspectives, specifically Māori communities?

Responsible innovation, particularly in Māori communities, involves a variety of frameworks and practices that prioritize cultural values and ancestral knowledge. Key concepts like tikanga (cultural practices), mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), te reo Māori (language), and whakapapa (ancestral lineage) are integral to understanding indigenous perspectives on innovation and ecosystems. These frameworks guide decision-making, especially in resource management and environmental sustainability.

Kaitiakitanga, or guardianship, is a crucial concept in Māori culture, guiding responsible management of natural resources. It is embedded in the Resource Management Act 1991, which works in conjunction with the Treaty of Waitangi to ensure Māori cultural values are respected in planning and decision-making. The Māori King Movement, or Kīngitanga, further reinforces this role of guardianship, linking Māori leadership with the protection of whakapapa and historical events.

However, there are challenges and failures when innovation or resource management is approached from a place of entitlement rather than mutual respect and partnership. Historical examples like the New Zealand flax industry, the Treaty of Waitangi’s impact, the Tohunga Suppression Act 1907, and more recent 2024 protests between the Crown-Māori relations highlight the consequences of ignoring Māori rights and values. These failures underline the importance of re-evaluating relationships and evolving approaches to innovation and resource management, ensuring that Māori communities are seen as equal partners.

Successful responsible innovation must involve a partnership approach, guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and rooted in Māori knowledge and cultural principles. By learning from past mistakes and embracing holistic frameworks like kaitiakitanga, tangible results can be achieved through respectful and collaborative efforts.

The Waihou Jacket -GOLD Pin — Best Awards.

New Zealand has a rich history of clothing that represent its agricultural heritage, the iconic Swanndri and oilskin jackets being notable amongst these. However, the 21st century farm is a professional environment, with scientific, technological, commercial and lifestyle shifts giving rise to a new breed of farmer — one who is equally conversant with bank managers as they are with farm hands; equally as proficient on a smart phone as they are on a farm bike.

To date, there has been a lack of innovation in apparel that meets both the functional requirements of the contemporary farm while reflecting current-day ‘cool’. The Waihou Jacket responds to this need, using human-centred design to blend urban streetwear aesthetics with high-tech fabrication and functional integrity. The jacket was designed in response to a brief that required students to adopt a ‘blue sky’ approach to developing garments for global outdoor lifestyle brand, Kathmandu. Functionality was to be considered in conjunction with creative, fashion-forward design thinking to produce a detail-focused garment suited to the high-end urban streetwear market.

Constructed from a 3-layer bonded, 5000mm weatherproof rated Hydrotex, the Waihou Jacket is showerproof and windproof. The two-way stretch, soft-shell fabrication has a 3000gm breathability rating and can withstand light snowfall. The incorporation of an Aquaseal zip and seam-sealing technology provide additional protection from the elements.

The Waihou Jacket is non gender-specific, with a broad shoulder and tapered silhouette that is conducive to rain run-off. The hemline dips at the back to provide seat protection from dew-laden farm bikes, and the two-way zip allows the wearer to straddle a bike or fence with ease, without the need for opening the torso section. When fully zipped, the collar extends above the mouth, and coupled with the fully extended hood, provides weather protection to the face. The brim can be turned back to give the wearer optimal peripheral vision, and in moderate weather the entire hood is detachable.

UV protection is also considered, with the detachable inner lining containing sunglass pockets and elasticated chapstick/lipstick carriers. Business meetings are easily conducted on the farm, with the farmer able to have paperwork and smart devices contained in purpose-built pouches, the phone cleverly resting against the wearer’s forearm for easy ergonomic use. On the outer shell, prominent seams are stitched with reflective thread, providing visibility benefits in both rural and urban settings, but without compromising the understated aesthetic appeal that epitomises the Waihou Jacket.

BEST DESIGNS AWARDS - PRODUCT DESIGN: GOLD PIN

Honouring Nature with Sustainable Craftsmanship

Understanding Nature's Cost

At KIMBERLEY MAAKA, we believe in transparency and accountability. We recognise that every product we offer has an impact on the environment.

Let's delve into the nature's cost added to our Harakeke woven hair extensions:

Sustainable Sourcing: Our Harakeke fibers are sourced from responsibly managed Pā Harakeke plantations where biodiversity is preserved, and ecosystem health is prioritised. By supporting sustainable cultivation practices, we minimise the environmental footprint of our raw materials.

Low-Impact Processing: We employ eco-friendly processing methods that minimise water usage and energy consumption during the conversion of Harakeke fibers into hair extensions. Our commitment to reducing waste and pollution is evident at every stage of production.

Biodegradable Packaging: We package our Harakeke Hair extensions using biodegradable materials were possible, reducing the burden on landfills and ecosystems. Our aim is to ensure that even the packaging aligns with our sustainability values.

Carbon Footprint: We continuously assess and minimise the carbon footprint of our products, including transportation emissions and using environmental elements (wind, rain, sun) available daily to our use. By optimising logistics and prioritising local sourcing wherever possible, we strive to minimise our contribution to climate change.

End-of-Life Considerations: When it's time to part ways with your Harakeke Hair extensions, rest assured that they can be composted or recycled, closing the loop on their life cycle and minimising environmental impact.

Why It Matters: By understanding and acknowledging nature's cost, we empower our customers to make informed choices. By choosing Harakeke Bundles from KIMBERLEY MAAKA, you're not just investing in quality beauty products; you're supporting sustainable practices that protect your well-being and our planet for future generations to come.

Lifelong Sustainability, Shared.

Understanding the importance of a balanced ecosystem is crucial. An ecosystem, a complex network of living organisms, their interactions, and their environment, is fundamental to sustaining life on Earth. Every element, from plants and animals to microorganisms, plays a vital role in maintaining this balance. When disruptions occur—whether from pollution, habitat loss, or climate change—the consequences can be severe for both the environment and its inhabitants. Recognising and valuing the interconnections within ecosystems is key to preserving biodiversity, ensuring the longevity of natural resources, and fostering a healthier planet for present and future generations.

The Purpose

Sustainability

Plant / New growth

Lifestyle Use

Recycling

Disposal

Bio-degradable

Eco-friendly

The Shift

Integrity

Supporting existing circular designs

Employment

Self-sustaining / Restorative

Transverse

Efficient

The Value / Well-being

Community

Environment

Renewable

Safe for skin contact

Overall well-being of people and Life!

From Plant to Fibre.

Exploring the intersection of analogue (handcrafted) and digital processes, such as Wholegarment® digital knitting technologies, this approach merges European scientific methods with Māori knowledge of Harakeke (Phormium tenax). It highlights the innovative connections between traditional Māori weaving (raranga) and the design industry, fostering a dynamic dialogue that bridges culture, craftsmanship, and forward-thinking innovation. The integration of this new knowledge benefits all industries by creating sustainable, adaptable practices that blend traditional wisdom with cutting-edge technology, promoting efficiency, creativity, and environmental responsibility across diverse sectors.

Ko wai au? Who am I?Māori/Pākehā Artist Worldview

Kia Ora e te Whānau!

I come from a rich Whakapapa of Māori and European heritage, navigating the intersection of two cultural worlds. Growing up in Aotearoa, between the Bay of Islands and East Coast communities, my industrious farm upbringing and deep cultural roots have shaped my identity and commitment to innovative growth.

This diverse upbringing has inspired me to explore collaborative pathways within a digital practice, blending traditional knowledge with the timeless art of working with harakeke.

My heritage has gifted me not only a deep connection to the whenua and harakeke but also an intangible passion—an inherited fascination with harakeke's potential. This passion drives my work, sparking a vision to transform this remarkable fibre into fine threads, reimagining its place in the modern textile industry.

Through my craft, I work on both physical and spiritual levels, using technique to honour cultural traditions while offering a fresh perspective for Māori and all who venture into the worlds of textiles and technology.

Whakapapa: Honouring knowledge passed down to me.

Tikanga

Tikanga and Harakeke: Cultural Practices and Respectful Use

Tikanga refers to the customs, protocols, and practices associated with various activities and resources in Māori culture. When it comes to Harakeke (Phormium tenax), a plant of great cultural significance, there are specific tikanga surrounding its cultivation, harvesting, and use. These customs may differ between tribes but share common values of respect and mindfulness.

Cultivation:
Before harvesting Harakeke, it's important to reflect on your intentions and consider whether you're honouring your ancestors by creating something meaningful with the knowledge passed down to you. Acknowledging the land and the plant itself is essential. This often involves reciting karakia (prayers) or offering thanks to Tāne Mahuta (God of the Forest) and Papatūānuku (Earth Mother) for providing the resource.

Harvesting:
When harvesting Harakeke leaves for weaving or other purposes, it's customary to take only what is needed and to do so respectfully. Over-harvesting is discouraged, and the health of the plant must be preserved. Harvesting is not allowed at night or in the rain, and food is not to be brought into the Pā Harakeke. Leaves are carefully cut on the diagonal, away from the plant's core, and from top to bottom, which allows rainwater to drain and protects the heart of the plant from flooding and decay.

Preparation:
After harvesting, the leaves are traditionally prepared by stripping away the outer layers to reveal the fibers inside. This process requires both skill and patience, with specific techniques and rituals that may be followed.

Weaving:
Weaving with Harakeke is a revered art form in Māori culture, with distinct tikanga associated with different techniques, patterns, and styles. Specific types of Harakeke fibers are used for particular purposes. Traditionally, no food is consumed while working with the plant, and pregnant or menstruating women do not harvest or weave, as they are considered to be in a tapu (sacred) state.

Cultural Significance:
Harakeke holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning for Māori, symbolising strength, resilience, and a strong connection to the land. There are also tikanga related to its use in ceremonies, rituals, and artistic expressions, highlighting its symbolic value.

In summary, the tikanga surrounding Harakeke emphasizes respect for the plant, its cultural importance, and the traditional knowledge passed down within Māori communities. These practices are essential for preserving and perpetuating the cultural heritage associated with Harakeke.

Whanau symbolisim

Whānau Symbolism in Harakeke

In Māori culture, the fan-shaped Harakeke plant holds profound symbolism related to whānau, or family. Its structure and dynamics closely mirror those of a familial unit, reflecting the interconnectedness and support that exist within a family. The Harakeke stands tall, deeply rooted in the earth, symbolising strength, resilience, and unity. This connection underscores the vital role Harakeke plays in Māori life, representing and perpetuating familial values and relationships.

The Rito: The Child at the Heart of the Family
At the core of the Harakeke plant lies the inner shoot, called the rito, symbolising a child. This central part is never harvested, emphasising the need for protection and care to ensure survival. Surrounding the rito are the awhi rito, which represent the parents or guardians. These leaves, like the parents in a family, are also never removed, symbolising the ongoing care and support provided to the child. Only the outer leaves, which represent extended family members, are harvested.

Whānau Symbolism in Harakeke

• Variety within Unity:
  Just as a family is made up of individuals with unique strengths, Harakeke consists of different varieties, each with specific attributes and uses. Despite these differences, they come together to form a unified whole, symbolising the strength found in diversity.

• Strength and Support:
  The strong, fibrous leaves of Harakeke represent the resilience and support within families. Like the sturdy leaves that protect and support the plant, families provide strength and stability to their members, helping them endure life's challenges.

• Interdependence:
  Harakeke plants rely on one another for growth and survival. Similarly, family members depend on each other for support, guidance, and love. This mutual reliance highlights the importance of cooperation and collaboration within families, where each member contributes to the well-being of the whole.

• Nurturing and Care:
  Harakeke requires nurturing care to thrive, just as families provide love, guidance, and a supportive environment for their members. This symbolism stresses the importance of creating positive relationships and nurturing environments that help individuals grow.

• Cultural Identity:
  Harakeke holds deep cultural significance, representing connections to the land, ancestors, and Māori heritage. Likewise, families are central to preserving cultural identity, passing down traditions, values, and knowledge from one generation to the next.

Conclusion:
The symbolism of whānau in Harakeke reflects the interconnectedness, strength, resilience, and cultural significance found within families and communities. Just as the Harakeke plant serves as a vital resource for Māori, the family plays an equally vital role in nurturing and sustaining individuals, ensuring the continuity and health of the wider community.

Weaving: A Transformative Journey

Te Whare Pora: The Sacred House of Weaving

Te Whare Pora, the house of weaving, holds a deeply spiritual and cultural significance in Māori tradition. Guided by the stewardship of Hineteiwaiwa, the principal deity of weaving, it serves as a bridge between the tangible and spiritual realms of this art form. Hineteiwaiwa is revered across Polynesia and Aotearoa New Zealand for her connection to women’s creative work and her role as a protector of childbirth. Female infants are traditionally dedicated to her care, symbolising her role as a guardian of new life.

Initiating the significant office of Ruahine, she orchestrates ceremonies that lift the tapu from newly constructed dwellings. Some iwi regard her as the daughter of Tāne Mahuta, the god of the forest, and Hine Rauamoa. Known also as Hina, she embodies the lunar essence and plays a central role in Māori cultural narratives.

The Spiritual Dimension of Weaving
Te Whare Pora transcends its physical structure. It is a space of spiritual initiation where weavers undergo transformative rituals that open their minds to profound knowledge. Initiates enter with the purpose of refining their craft, guided by sacred rites that elevate their understanding of weaving to its highest form. The sacred ceremonies are believed to imbue the apprentice with wisdom, deepening their connection to the spiritual aspects of weaving.

In the past, these sacred initiation rites were central to the weaver’s journey but are now rare due to the influence of missionaries, who discouraged practices conflicting with Christian teachings. Despite this, the essence of Te Whare Pora continues to inspire those who practice the art of weaving, honouring both tradition and the spiritual world.

Diverse Artistry of Te Whare Pora

Te Whare Pora is home to various weaving traditions, each with its own unique expression and cultural significance:

• Tāniko: Similar to European twining, Tāniko is used to decorate garments, birdcages, traps, and eel baskets. It is also applied in modern pieces like belts, purses, bodices, armbands, headbands, and bandoliers.

• Arapaki or Tukutuku: This decorative latticework adorns the walls of wharenui (meeting houses), telling stories through intricate patterns and embellishing communal spaces.

• Piupiu: These traditional Harakeke garments, worn around the waist, speak to Māori cultural identity and hold deep significance in ceremonial contexts.

• Whatu: Known as the ‘cloak weave,’ Whatu forms the foundation of fabric production, with each piece woven to tell tales of heritage and kinship.

• Whiri: A range of plaiting techniques used to create poi, waist girdles, and headbands. Each strand is woven with intention, carrying meaning and purpose.

• Raranga: The art of creating kete (baskets), which carry not only material sustenance but also stories within their fibers.

Conclusion
Te Whare Pora is not only a physical space but a sacred realm where the spiritual and practical aspects of weaving are intertwined. Guided by the wisdom of Hineteiwaiwa and rooted in tikanga, the house of weaving continues to represent Māori identity, culture, and the sacredness of craftsmanship. Through its diverse artistry, Te Whare Pora preserves and perpetuates the rich traditions of weaving, ensuring that the stories, heritage, and values of Māori culture endure.

Don’t let the World change who you are! Be your own shooting star!

My Beautiful Great GrandMother Heni Te Kāuru

To understand Māori culture, one must first grasp the concept of whakapapa, which is the genealogy or line of descent from one’s ancestors. Whakapapa is central to Māori identity and plays a vital role in shaping the society we live in. It is embedded in our language, beliefs, values, and everyday conversations, and forms the basis for how we connect with Ngā Atua (the Gods) and each other.

Whakapapa guides our personal journey, helping us connect ideas, principles, and experiences in meaningful ways. Reconnecting with your whakapapa can be incredibly empowering and enriching, especially in a world full of distractions. It serves as a grounding tool, offering clarity about who we are and helping us navigate life with confidence. With the wisdom and knowledge of our ancestry, we are equipped to move forward without fear.

Whakapapa is one of our most precious taonga (treasures), shaping not only our own lives but also the lives of our whānau, friends, and communities. By embracing and understanding our whakapapa, we elevate our self-respect, raise our standards, and unlock our full potential. It strengthens our perspective, allowing us to grow and navigate life more fully.

When we are aligned with our whakapapa, we gain the knowledge, wisdom, and experience to make the best choices for ourselves, becoming the "master" of our own lives. However, when we allow the weight of the world to overwhelm us, we risk becoming bitter and frustrated, affecting others around us. By focusing on ourselves intimately, we transform challenges into opportunities for growth, using whakapapa as an anchor in all we do.

In times of change or hardship, whakapapa reminds us of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going. It allows us to let go of what no longer serves us and move forward into the light of our true potential.

Be your own shooting star.

The Heart of our Journey

To my beautiful children, I dedicate this next chapter in life to you.

I love being your Mama. You bring so much joy to my heart, and I’m so blessed to share this time with you.

I love you! I choose you!

Every time! All the time!

Keep being beautiful.

Love, Mum.