Wairata Warbrick - Mā Whero and Mā

Mā Whero and Mā is a collection inspired by traditional Māori craft, ancestral lands and histories. Wairata chose this topic because she had a very European upbringing and she felt a disconnect from her Māori heritage. This collection is an exploration into this side of her identity.

Her collection pays homage to the beauty of the Pink and White Terraces, as well as acknowledging her ancestors who lost their lives on the night the terraces were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Tarawera.

The embellishments are meant as a way to bring mana and beauty to her collection.

The aspect of taniko weaving is with the geometric shaping, specifically the use of triangles in the bead patterns. She has referenced traditional Māori garments such as korowai with the use of wrapping in her designs and referenced taniko weaving in her embellishments.

Taniko Cape with Pink and White Crop Top and Taniko Skirt.

Taniko Wrap Dress

With the Pink and White Terrace embroidery she wanted to have a variety of textures and layers to emphasise the beauty of this landscape.

Pink and White Long Dress

Pink and White Jump Suit