the senses

to bring in other Auckland weavers and artists she works with.

After studying fashion at the then Auckland Technical Institute (ATI) now Auckland University of Technology, she worked in the fashion industry, including styling big shows. She recalls a young Rachel Hunter, when she made an early appearance on the runway at the Benson & Hedges Fashion Design Awards. Working with fibre became a passion. She learned traditional weaving skills with Tainui women and her weaving has been featured in film and television productions.

“I do more art now and tutoring,” she says. The mother of four children, with two still at home, these days lives in rural Henderson Valley.

Sometimes, she teaches at the nearby Corban Estate, where flaxes from around the country are cultivated for weaving. Woven kete from the Corban’s Weaving Circle are among pieces on display at the Depot.

Matariki celebrations provide a good way of generally imparting Māori ways, says Davis. Its adoption as a national holiday is something she regards as a turning point.

“It’s beautiful for Māori because it’s a time when we can shine,” she says.

It is a time to restore and reflect. “We all get this extra day, when we can get our family together.”

Rather than head to the bach, people can simply cocoon together at home, drawing close.

Connecting to the rhythms of the natural world is also an important aspect of what Matariki offers everyone, she says. “We need to be aware to protect our whenua, our land, to stop cutting down our trees and to protect waterways.”

• Āhuru Mōwai, at the Depot Artspace from 1 July to 1 August, with an opening this Saturday from 2pm to 4pm. In late July, the gallery will host other Matariki events – details on depot.org.nz.