Kakahuria ki te atawhai : clothed in kindness : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a Master in Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand. EMBARGOED until 27th May 2027

Abstract

The need to indigenize spaces in Aotearoa (New Zealand) arises from the impact of colonization that began in the 1840s, which has led to the marginalization of Māori culture and perspectives in many public and educational spaces. The process of re-indigenisation is essential to ensuring a positive and authentic representation of Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview) across these spaces, fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment. This will be especially poignant at the Wananga Noho Marae at Te Rau Karamu Marae where participants will weave a collaborative Kaupapa. This project aims to create a contemporary korowai (traditional Māori cloak/s) that serves as both an artistic statement and a tool for decolonization. Beyond its aesthetic value, the Korowai will act as a cultural beacon, inviting viewers to engage with and reflect on the significance of Māori culture in modern Aotearoa. These Korowai will be the world’s first 3D-printed Korowai. By employing design-led prototype iterations and Māori methodologies, the Korowai will be craft ed to be visually appealing, thought-provoking, and impactful. It will address the need to indigenize spaces by challenging colonial narratives and offering a powerful representation of Māori identity and artistry. This will especially be done through Maori methodologies including, Noho, Wananga, Ako, Te Aonui, and Whakapapa. Education and design The Korowai will be exhibited in various locations across Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington), creating opportunities for broader community engagement and dialogue around the importance of decolonization and the celebration of Māori heritage.