Ōrongonui- Behind the weave

Ōrongonui reflects the origin and flow of life in our natural environment. This design invites us to observe and attune our lives to the phases and timing of the universe, to empower the continuity of peace as we transition through cycles of change and growth.

Ōrongonui is the name of the 28th night of the lunar month and the name of the male personified form of the moon. Across Te Moana Nui a Kiwa, the moon is a key measure of time, and it’s personified form, Rongo, Rono, Ro’o, Longo, Lono, and Ono is also the patron atua of agriculture.

The central motif of this design displays the four primary moon phases: Rākaunui (highest), Tangaroa (productive), Whiro (lowest) and Tamatea (unpredictable). The 'uha', female essence, is celebrated with threads of Moon white and Hutu red, the deep red affirming the importance of the natural flow of vitality in our cycles of life. Okori blue permeates throughout the body of this design, reflecting the cycle of wai that is ever flowing. A symbol of sustainability, resilience and perpetuity.

The poutama stepped pattern is traditionally associated with Tāne and ‘the pursuit of knowledge’, within this design it acknowledges Rongomātāne, and speaks to maintaining balance in our pursuit, advancing in equal measure of Rongo and Tāne, as principles that sustain creation: Movement and stillness, Solidification and fluidity, Extension and contraction, Unification and division. 

The pūrākau of Whānui, the star Vega, recounts also the story of his brother Rongo-maui and whakapapa describing kūmara as his descendants. In ancient narratives we again meet with this close connection to the heavens, in yet another name, that of Rongo-mai, for the being of that name ascended to the moon, his story is re-written across the sky every 75 years as Halley’s Comet, a phenomenon recognised as a good omen of protection and guidance. These celestial accounts of Rongo and their relationship with the land are reflected in the Rua-whetū pattern in the side panels of this design. Rua-whetū - a chasm of stars.