This lovely replica Maori Girls or Boys Korowai Cloak is ideal worn over the top of the Kapa Haka costume.
The Korowai cloak was worn by men and women as protection against the elements. Some were quite simple, woven from flax, whereas others were made from animal skins and/or feathers. The more beautiful cloaks were used for ceremonial purposes.
This girls or boys Korowai cloak is of simple design, adorned by traditional karure, or tassles. The ends are held together with a comfortable band of elastic.
The Korowai is sized Small ( age 2-4), Medium (4-6), Large ( 6-8), XL (age 10-12), and 2XL (up to womens size 12).
Size Large measures approximately 80 - 90cm (31' - 36') around the shoulders.
Size 2XL measures up to 100cm (39') and will fit up to womens size 12. Its length is 97cm (38').
Note the lovely border at the top, which was traditionally made using taniko weaving. The design was derived from the costume worn by the Otatara Cultural Club of Taradale, New Zealand. The design depicts New Zealand national bird, the Kiwi, which is surrounded by the Niho-Taniwha pattern ( dragons teeth) and the Three Baskets of Knowledge. This design was the work of three people, namely Ellen Coulter, Ngaupoko Batt, and Baden Batt. Only Baden is still alive, and he gives his unreserved consent to the costume and the Maori motifs used on them.
