Raranga Face Mask

This raranga face mask was woven by Purewa MacGregor (Taranaki and Rongowhakaata) from boiled and dyed harakeke (New Zealand flax), cotton, and braided muka, following consultation with medical professionals. Purewa developed her harakeke mask, using techniques she regularly uses in other woven taonga, in response to what she saw on television and in person in the build-up to Alert Level 4. She had ‘seen Māori everywhere wearing scarves, bandanas, hats, and all sorts of things looking for a way of protection during the pandemic and I decided to create something for them. I wanted a way to help my community in a way that allowed them to be safe and be Māori.’

Purewa MacGregor (Taranaki and Rongowhakaata), New Zealand

14 May 2020

Designed in Hastings, New Zealand

Made in Hastings, New Zealand

Harakeke (New Zealand flax), cotton fabric lining, muka (prepared flax fibre), synthetic dye, raranga (weaving)

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
ME024616