About Us

Our Story
Founded in 2019 by Hiria Aorangi (Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kuri), Korowai by Hiria is a proud Māori, family-owned business dedicated to the traditional and contemporary art of korowai making. What began as a personal love for weaving has grown into a vision of sharing the beauty, mana, and significance of korowai with families across Aotearoa and the world.

Every thread we weave carries a story. Our korowai are more than garments – they are taonga (treasures) that embody connection, respect, and legacy. Whether gifted to mark a milestone or passed down through generations, each korowai becomes part of your whānau’s journey.

Mission & Values
Our mission is simple: to create exquisite handmade korowai that provide warmth, cultural nourishment, and a timeless sense of belonging. Crafted by family, for family, every korowai represents the weaving together of aroha (love), tikanga (tradition), and auahatanga (creativity).

We are guided by three core values:

  • Manaakitanga (Respect & Care): Honouring the tradition and cultural significance of korowai, and caring deeply for those who wear them.

  • Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship): Respecting our natural materials, protecting our craft, and giving back to our community.

  • Auahatanga (Creativity): Innovating with contemporary designs while remaining grounded in our roots.

The Significance of Korowai
A korowai is more than attire – it is a symbol of love, honour, and connection. Each piece is carefully woven to tell a story and becomes a taonga that carries the mana of the wearer. They are often gifted at graduations, weddings, cultural milestones, and other significant life events, representing both personal achievement and collective pride.

Every korowai created in our studio is blessed with a dedicated karakia written by Hiria’s father and kaumātua, Sonny Niha. This practice ensures that each piece is spiritually grounded, respected, and prepared for its journey with you and your whānau.

Our Studio
Located in Swanson, Henderson, Auckland, our cozy home studio is where Hiria and her family lovingly handcraft contemporary Māori korowai. While we operate primarily as an online boutique, we welcome visits to our studio by appointment only to ensure a personalised and meaningful experience.

📍 1 Lumber Rise, Swanson, Auckland 0614
🕙 Monday to Friday: 10am – 5pm
📧 orders@korowaibyhiria.com

Looking Ahead
At Korowai by Hiria, we see ourselves not only as weavers of korowai but as weavers of legacy. Each cloak we make carries our whānau’s aroha and a commitment to keeping this sacred art alive for generations to come.