At Mātātuhi Designs, every order that leaves our hands is more than just a parcel. It’s a taonga. It carries the spirit of our culture, our values, and our intentions. That’s why before we send anything out, we begin with something deeply personal and culturally significant: karakia.
What is Karakia?
Karakia are traditional Māori prayers or incantations used to invoke spiritual guidance, protection, and clarity. They connect us to wairua (spirituality), our tīpuna (ancestors), and te taiao (the natural world).
They aren’t just ceremonial. They ground us, help us show respect, and remind us to carry out our work with integrity.
A Ritual of Respect and Intention
Every order at Mātātuhi Designs is blessed with Karakia o te Atua, a karakia I first learnt at the age of 11 in the whānau class at intermediate school. Each morning, we would walk down to the special unit to begin our day with karakia.
Those early mornings taught me the strength and grounding that karakia can bring. It’s not just about the words, but the presence they create.
That same karakia now blesses every parcel we send. It’s how I honour my past, protect the mahi I do today, and ensure that each item arrives in its new home with mana and mauri intact.
Before the Markets Begin
Our commitment to karakia goes beyond the online store. Whenever we attend a market or stall, we start our day with karakia.
It helps us centre ourselves, connect with our tīpuna, and welcome positive energy into the space. Amid the busyness of a market day, karakia brings focus and intention. It reminds us that we’re there to share and celebrate te ao Māori in a way that’s authentic and respectful.
Why It’s In Our Karakia Collection
Because Karakia o te Atua holds such personal significance, it felt right to include it in our karakia homeware range.
It’s more than just a design or a piece of décor. It’s a reminder of tradition, identity, and the power of starting and ending each day with purpose. When you place a karakia in your home, you’re welcoming peace, protection, and spiritual presence into your space.
A Business Grounded in Tikanga
We’re proud to incorporate tikanga Māori into every part of Mātātuhi Designs. Karakia is one way we stay connected to our kaupapa, which is to celebrate, preserve, and promote Māori culture through everything we do.
It keeps us accountable, reminds us of where we come from, and anchors our mahi in something greater than ourselves.
Thank you to everyone who has supported our journey. Whether you’ve purchased from our store, visited us at a market, or simply followed along online, your support helps us continue to uphold these practices and share our culture, one parcel at a time.
Ngā mihi nui,
Kelly x
