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.
Our Mission:
To honour whakapapa through contemporary Māori design — weaving tradition, creativity, and mana into every taonga we create.
We exist to celebrate identity, empower whānau, and uphold the integrity of cultural artistry in Aotearoa and beyond.
Our Purpose:
To create taonga that carry mana — connecting people, culture, and creativity in a way that uplifts every wearer and whānau.
We are guided by our core values:
1. Manaakitanga — Care & Respect
We treat every person, every cloak, and every story with kindness, integrity, and genuine respect.
2. Whakapapa — Connection to our Roots
Our work honours those who came before us and inspires those who will come after. Every thread carries legacy.
3. Auahatanga — Creativity & Innovation
We embrace bold ideas and contemporary design, while staying grounded in tikanga and tradition.
4. Kotahitanga — Unity & Collaboration
We work as one whānau — uplifting, supporting, and growing together in every part of our mahi.
5. Pono — Integrity & Authenticity
We stand by our word and craft with honesty, pride, and purpose in everything we do.
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
We are moving,
From the 1st of October we will be at :
📍14a Westech Place, Kelston, Auckland 0602
🕙 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.