Designed with purpose and worn with pride, this collection honours the ancient love that birthed a people - the sacred union of Māui’s mokopuna, Manaakiao and Torerenuiarua, the cherished daughter of Hoturoa, captain of the Tainui waka, and his wife Whakaotirangi.

 

Their love was more than a story. It was a binding of lineages, a merging of seas and stars that gave rise to the tribe of Ngāi Tai.

 

It also carries the memory of Koro Bill and Nanny Mana Maxwell — a love that endured a lifetime. The phrase ‘boyfriend and girlfriend’ is uniquely Ngāi Tai, and it is hoped these words will be cherished for generations to come.

 

This collection symbolises that enduring connection - the aroha that moves through generations, uniting whānau under one whakapapa, one heartbeat, one horizon.

 

Our Tai Ora.

 

When we wear our history close, we walk together in strength, love, unity and legacy.

 

Together, we are one people. Together, we will never be lost.