The Kea

The kea is a large parrot found in the alpine areas of the South Island – in fact it is the only alpine parrot found in the world. They are intelligent, inquisitive and social—a flock is known as a ‘curiosity of kea’! They are attracted to shiny objects, such as bottle caps and mirrors, and have been known to peel the rubber from the windscreens of parked cars in the Southern Alps. They are commonly referred to as ‘cheeky kea’!

Sound recording of a kea (Dept of Conservation)
More about the kea (Kea Conservation Trust)

Wrapt in New Zealand uses Merino and rare breed wools, possum down and alpaca, cashmere and mohair fleeces from animals raised in New Zealand. These yarns are spun and dyed by kiwi artisans before being transformed by a sixth-generation New Zealander into stunning, one-of-a-kind, hand-woven pieces inspired by the colours of the birds of Aotearoa.

Wrapt in New Zealand has an uncompromising commitment to craftsmanship. It takes several days to transform more than a kilometre of yarn into a finished piece. Individual motifs inspired by Maori & Pacifica design are painstakingly added, uniquely customising each piece.

Each piece is individually presented and includes details of the story and inspiration for each design. Care instructions are also included. No two pieces are the same – the inspiration is expressed differently in each piece.

Designs are available as: