Te Whārua: Behind the weave

Nov 01, 2024

As mountains rise above, I descend into the depths and lushness of the green valleys below.

The mountain songs echo down the ravines, ballads of birds and insects float through the breeze as trees and pasture resound in celebration. Sunlight dances atop the shadows, peering through the forest canopy as streams and rivers bring life-giving nutrients to all along its course, through carved canyons, gorges and gullies on its journey to the sea.

Growth is sacred and sheltered here, in the valleys of life.

Sustenance can be found in the dense, impenetrable undergrowth of the valley. From rich fertile soil grows lush leaf and fern, bearing succulent fruits and seed above, abundance springs forth in the hollow of the land.

Our histories reflect Te Whārua as a place of refuge, abundance and provision. In times of old and still today, we hunt, forage and gather to keep knowledge systems and practices alive, as well as to sustain our collectives. Trees and plants bear fruit and house the bustling birdlife, while lower to the ground, the valley floor adapts to survive and thrive. Fresh water springs forth and rivers teem with fish, freshwater kōura and eels. Hot springs, geysers and mud pools bring geothermal valleys to life; Te Whārua as a place to kindle connection, and sustain life. Homesteads and villages are established close to the natural resources of Te Whārua, and sheltered by the highlands above, allowing for bounty and prosperity.

The side borders of this design are inspired by the aorangi pattern which reflects the mountain ranges that border the expanse of the valley, displayed in the woven body of the blanket. Lined with rows of niho taniwha (sawed tooth) displaying the many family houses that populate the valleys of home, niho taniwha is reflective of the tenacious endeavor of the people to care and provide for family and community.

The kōpiko waharua design within the main decorative border reflect the sheltering refuge of Te Whārua, while the black warp is accentuated here to reflect the shadows cast by the forest canopy. These motifs traditionally describe best practice for how we engage with the environment and how we communicate with the people around us as we work towards our common aspirations.

The central spiral motifs or puna wai, describe the qualities of our valleys as fresh spring water gushes forth from deep underground aquifers. A finite resource that requires a reciprocation of care, as our fresh water nourishes both the environment and the people, we must be vigilant to ensure these qualities endure into the future.

Te Whārua offers an alternative perspective to the popularised western meaning of the mountain symbolising victory and success, while valleys reflect the challenges and trials we face. It is in the valleys of life where seeds take root, life enters the world and is allowed to flourish. Te Whārua nurtures new growth, providing sanctuary and nourishment, fortifying community and collective action for common goals, and where the consideration of a lofty aspiration, ascending maunga, is even a possibility.

Te Whārua is one of three new designs in our Limitless range, launching on Friday 01.11.24