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.

Ethically & Sustainably Made:

Korowai by Hiria is a slow-fashion, Māori-led artisan brand committed to ethical, small-batch production. Every korowai is handcrafted in our West Auckland studio using fair labour practices, tikanga-aligned processes, and made-to-order production methods that minimise waste and honour cultural integrity. We create heirloom pieces designed to be passed through generations, reflecting sustainability through longevity, craftsmanship, and respect for people and whenua.

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.