Also known as “kahu huruhuru”, most people use the word “korowai” as the name to describe Maori feather cloaks. Korowai are the most highly prized of all traditional Maori garments and are regarded as family and personal heirlooms.

Modern times have allowed us to construct Korowai in contemporary fashion and with this there are many benefits:

• Korowai created by Koata are made from feathers that have been previously treated by New Zealand Customs. Owners should check the korowai regularly for feather deterioration in case it needs to be re-fumigated.
  
• While Koata korowai still take a considerable time to create, the process is significantly faster than traditional methods. Depending on size and the complexity of the design we are able to produce a korowai in a week.
• Koata use sewing machines to double and/or triple stitch each row of feathers onto the korowai backing. The Korowai are fully lined, professionally finished and robustly constructed.
• By having contemporary korowai available, the few traditional korowai still remaining in New Zealand can be safely stored away or held for only the most significant of occasions. People are able to wear contemporary korowai comfortably and without fear of damaging an irreplaceable item.
• Koata source their feathers from all around the world allowing for a greater variety of feather colours, shapes and sizes.
• Koata are able to custom make korowai to meet your design needs, for instance, creating a completely white korowai for a wedding or designing a korowai in the colours of a particular organisation or school.

Each korowai is lovingly made by Koata in Nelson, New Zealand and every care is taken to ensure that the korowai will last as family heirlooms and treasures. Koata are proud to provide you with the opportunity to have your own family korowai, a unique piece of art that captures the essence of New Zealand Culture.

Contact Jared Riwai-Couch on mobile 021 981106, phone 03 3322096 or email jared@koata.iwi.nz