Tahua-roa is another name for Rongo, as the advocator, the reconciler, the gatherer of people, the carer, the nourisher, the altruist, the compassionate and selfless. A well-known pattern derived from the Te Tairāwhiti, Poutama Porourangi embellishes the outer panels of this design. It represents our genealogy, ngā tātai whakapapa, each square motif reflects a generation in a long line of descent, acknowledging mana-tuku-iho, the inherent prestige we each embody. The central run of diamond shaped motifs, Uru kahika, is a reflection of a well known term used to describe a gathering or group where everyone supports one another like the root-system of a grove of kahikatea tree's. The panels of triangular motifs or niho taniwha within this design reflects a confederation, an alliance of chiefs, a pattern we’ve woven to display the power and impact of active listening to forge solidarity, to strengthen our resolve, in kotahitanga (unity). The colours used within this design reflect the Pipiwharauroa, or shining cuckoo. A short-tailed, bronze-green bird which migrates to the Solomon Islands and Bismarck Archipelago for the New Zealand winter. Its song is a signal of Spring, of the Māori planting season, which occurs from September to November. This blanket is woven in our heavy style with a thicker yarn using 100% New Zealand Lambswool, the result is a larger & more robust blanket. There are six different weave structures to embellish this design with a reversible contrasting colour pallet and features our classic blanket stitch edging. To find out more about the inspiration for this blanket, head to our journal Dimensions 140 x 210cm 2.5 kg Designed by Whakaawa and Josh Te Kani
