Korowai

A korowai is a Māori cloak worn as a mark of honour. Placed on someone's shoulders, it recognises their achievement, their whakapapa and the journey that brought them there. Today korowai are worn at graduations, weddings and other ceremonies, and are often gifted to mark a milestone.

Ours are contemporary korowai, handmade in Auckland: feathers are machine-stitched onto a lined fabric base and finished with a New Zealand wool tāniko trim. They're distinct from traditional handwoven cloaks, which take many months to weave.

Most of our korowai are made to order, so allow around 3 weeks. If it's for a graduation, wedding or other date, order early or get in touch and we'll let you know what's possible.

Many New Zealand universities and schools welcome korowai at graduation, worn over or in place of academic dress. Check your institution's guidance on academic dress, and talk to us about timing so it arrives before the day.

Colours and feathers are often chosen for what they mean to the wearer and their whānau: some reflect iwi or family colours, others the occasion or simply what the wearer loves. Many of our korowai also carry a tāniko pattern with its own meaning, such as the poutama (stairway), explained on the product page. For a custom korowai we can talk through colours with you.

We make adult and baby korowai, plus framed korowai to hang on the wall. The sizes for each korowai are shown on its page; if you need something different, ask us about a custom piece.