The Cloak was woven by Ranga Wairua Ora o Taranaki Whanui Weavers and made of traditional flax (haraheki) stripped and woven into muka. Feathers from Pukeko, Weka and Putatangitangi (Paradise Duck) have been used.

The history: It was discussed in Townsville amongst a number of members that New Zealand needed a national costume and a cloak was suggested. A number of ideas were floated but after the successful hui (meeting) in Waitara an approach was made to local weavers to design a cloak and it moved from there. It was approved in Kuala Lumpur and the process began. The design is totally different to the one originally shown.

The cloak is rich in symbolic meaning: The blue at the base represents the horizon or Pacific Rim. The two muka represent the imperfections of mankind hence the curve instead of a straight panel. The crossover represents the many challenges, people have overcome as we strive for peace and unity. The white feathers of the Pukeko represent the white feathers of peace and the flight of the albatross across the seas (albatross feathers cannot be used). The kete (small woven basket) symbolises the basket of knowledge. The bone pendant, Tangaroa, represents the tie of the land and the sea and the mountain of Taranaki.

Our thanks to Thelma Luxton, SI Waitara, who worked quietly in the background assisting the process. Her explanation above enriches our understanding.

For further information: Betty Loughhead Scholarship Criteria