Native NZ Kākāpō Bird Feather Māori Korowai

I've designed this korowai to honour our native kākāpō bird, an endangered species whose population is bouncing back due to the hard work of conservationists.  Please note that the korowai (kahu huruhuru to be exact) is not made from kākāpō birds.  That wouldn't be very helpful for conservation, would it?!  It is made from dyed chicken and rooster feathers.  

Key features:

• The length is approximately 40cm (102"), a good length to cover the shoulders, and to show off the variety of feather colours on a kākāpō.
• The top of the kakahu is finished with a knitted taniko in colours of olive green, black and white.
• The taniko design incorporates Te Manaia (the Māori spiritual guardian), a bird like figure that guides and guards your spirit.  
• The rest of the taniko is a Poutama (stairway to heaven) design.  The series of steps denote the steps of progress and advancement through education.  Both designs are so appropriate in the conservation of this beautiful native flightless parrot.
• Feathers used are olive green, brown, and mottled feathers,  representing the kākāpō's feathers.
• Your affinity to the korowai may be because of your love of the kākāpō or it may simply be because you love the colours, which are beautiful and earthy and very much New Zealand.
• The inside of the korowai is lined with quality black cotton fabric.
• The cloak is sewn on a sewing machine, making it more affordable than traditional methods.
• Fun fact: Kākāpō come in two different "colours" - green, or olive.  Current theory is the olive colour evolved to evade apex predators nearly 2 million years ago!  Little did they know that humans would be more of a danger, but they are now protected.

Made by a Māori lady of Ngati Porou descent. She was taught by her mother, who was in turn shown the method of making the korowai by a Northland kuia.   

Dimensions (approx):
Width 40" (102cm)
Length 16" (40cm)

The korowai is perfect for graduation, a 21st, other special birthdays and functions, or to present as a corporate gift, or to keep as a unique and beautiful piece of Māori art.  

NB: We try to keep our korowai in stock at all times, but if we have run out when you order, allow 2-3 weeks for it to be made.

SPECIAL NOTE RE SHIPPING : If you are having this shipped internationally, please select Economy Courier or Express Courier only. The item is too valuable to ship by Airmail, which does not carry sufficient insurance.

A deluxe black gift box is available as an optional extra - perfect if this is a presentation piece.