The creation of our Kia Ngāwari Zip Up - Mana Ako has been a heartfelt project we’ve long envisioned. With the incredible guidance and artistry of Emma Jane Ormsby, we’ve been able to bring it to life.

For the first time, The Kindness Project Aotearoa is releasing this design on a brand-new article of clothing - marking a meaningful step forward in our kaupapa. We are proud to share a new design that honours and uplifts Te Ao Māori through the intricate beauty of tukutuku.

This piece is a special addition to our Kia Ngāwari collection, continuing our commitment to kindness, identity, and cultural connection. This design is woven with tradition, creativity, and kindness.

Design process:

Every time Nellie and I sat down to discuss and design new drops, we always knew we wanted to create something that was woven with tradition. After sitting on this design for a couple of years, I finally decided to bite the bullet and go through with it. That’s when I reached out to an artist I knew to help bring our vision to life.

Sitting here writing this blog, I really want to share the true behind-the-scenes of creating this drop.

We went through two designs, as after talking to the manufacturer, the first one wasn’t going to work for various reasons. We then settled on this design.

First design that wasn’t going to work. - Design we went with in photos below.

In the middle of this drop, I also went on a sporting trip over to Canada, which meant we couldn’t shoot the hoodie until I returned. Two weeks later, we finally made a weekend of it and travelled north to shoot the hoodie at my partner’s marae in Takahiwai.

We released these on pre-order, sold them, and then sold our extras.

I learnt so much from this drop - in terms of printing, business skills, social media planning, etc. In future, I would have designed this hoodie in many different ways, but the perk of that is now having so much design inspiration for the next ones. MLW 2026 me Matariki 2026 - we are coming for you.

Mana Ako – Legacy Thread

Meaning: A fusion of Niho Taniwha, Poutama, and Kaokao.

Niho Taniwha: “Teeth of the Taniwha” – symbolising guardianship and strength.
Poutama: Symbolising the steps of growth, learning, and uplift.
Kaokao: Symbolising courage, readiness, and resilience.

This hybrid piece symbolises the full spectrum of kindness: to protect, to grow, and to rise with courage. It’s a visual kōrero of learning, strength, and love - a wearable reminder of your journey and your impact.

Wear it when… you want to carry the legacy of kindness forward, with every step stitched in meaning.

Aroha nui,
Maddi x

KIA NGĀWARI ZIP UP – Mana Ako

Matariki mā Puanga