Harakeke is a Native Flax in New Zealand / Aotearoa that is strong, sturdy and long-lasting when made into products. It is green in origin and slowly changes colour after it has been cut and begins to age.

There are many varieties of Harakeke.

Prashanti is Waiheke Island’s resident weaver, she shares her knowledge of Māori traditions around respect and preparation for the plant to be processed in this way.

Tikanga (protocols) differ by iwi (tribe), but some, like those below, were commonly followed.

• Weavers say a karakia (prayer) before cutting the first blade of harakeke.

• They always cut on the diagonal, away from the plant’s heart and from top to bottom. This helps rainwater drain away and prevents the heart from being flooded and dying.

• Harvesting is not permitted at night or in rain.

• Customarily, pregnant or menstruating women do not harvest or weave, as they are in a tapu (sacred) state.

This shoulder bag measures: 25.5 cm x 27 cm and the strap is 57 cm long.