ABSTRACT
The strength and lustre of harakeke provide a wide platform to weave and construct functional items. Processing the leaf to fibre, the fibre to threads and dyeing the threads brings an awareness of te taioa, which is integral to the concept of whakapapa. Harakeke not only creates possibilities for new enterprises within renewed industries, but also offers potential employment opportunities for Maori communities in the context of Maori lives unfolding today. In noting the harakeke plant as a whole-plant healer or a whole-of-system healer, the potential of indigenous agency and innovation contributes to the possibility of economic growth through distinctive research with, and development of, matauranga Maori around harakeke. Faith Kane is an immigrant to New Zealand from the Midlands in the UK and has lived in Wellington since 2016.
