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Raya Austin-Stewart

(Nga¯ti Ranginui, Nga¯ti Koroki Kahukura, Nga¯ti Haua¯) Raya Austin-Stewart prefers not to cut corners. Her design centres around kaitiakitanga (sustainability) and taonga – creating clothing to be treasured and worn, not just to collect dust after the Games are over.

‘‘My design is informed by kaupapa tuku iho, traditional Ma¯ori values that were handed down to us by our tu¯ puna,’’ says Austin-Stewart. ‘‘I wanted to specifically give expression to the kaupapa of kaitiakitanga, kotahitanga, manaakitanga and whakapapa.’’

‘‘In displaying kotahitanga (unity and partnership) I wanted to show our country’s unique relationship between tangata whenua and the Crown through the Tino Rangatiratanga flag on one arm and the Southern Cross from our national flag on the other.’’

Manaakitanga inspired the uniform’s gender-neutral style, emphasising the inclusion of all athletes. AustinStewart also acknowledges the host country by incorporating sakura flowers. The pounamu toki (adze) design symbolises strength and determination.

‘‘Whakapapa reinforces the connections between us and those who have come before. In that light I have chosen to adorn the athletes in piupiu, with the intention that these taonga will be kept as part of the Olympic opening ceremony kit to adorn our future Olympic athletes.’’

Fashion

en-nz

2021-07-24T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-07-24T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://fairfaxmedia.pressreader.com/article/282849374007846

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