Kōwhaiwhai

Kōwhaiwhai are a traditional Māori artform, with patterns often inspired by nature. As well as being decorative, kōwhaiwhai help to tell a story. The kōwhaiwhai featured throughout the magazine is specific to Wakatū; designed by one of our Te Hunga Panuku, Te Waiho Paratene.

There are three strands central to the design; the awa (rivers) that nurture the lands of Wakatū, the heke, the migration of our whānau and hapū from the North Island to Te Tauihu, and the journey of Wakatū since its incorporation in 1977.

Each segment of the kōwhaiwhai represents the hapū of Wakatū who descend from the iwi of Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Tama and Te Ātiawa. These segments symbolise chain links. Built from the strength of those who came before, the chain represents the strong links Wakatū has with its Owners, whānau, employees and business associates. It also represents the presence of Wakatū in Te Tauihu, Aotearoa, and the world, now and in the future.