Small Double Handle (Muka Braid) Kete

Handwoven Harakeke Kete with Braided Muka Handles by Ani McGuire

Crafted with reverence for tradition, this handwoven harakeke kete is a functional piece of traditional weaving by Hawke’s Bay master weaver Ani McGuire. Meticulously created using time-honoured raranga techniques, each kete embodies the connection between artist, whenua (land), and ancestral knowledge.

Ani gathers and prepares all harakeke (New Zealand flax) by hand from her family land, following the exacting processes of her tūpuna (ancestors). This small kete (approximately 25cm wide x 16cm high) features remarkably durable braided muka (flax fibre) handles, showcasing the strength and beauty of traditionally processed materials. Its refined size makes it a perfect unique clutch, a sacred holder for personal taonga (treasures), or an elegant statement of sustainable luxury.

More than an accessory, this kete represents a living heritage. Ani McGuire is a dedicated practitioner whose expertise extends to preserving the ancient art of weaving pandanus sails for ocean-voyaging waka. Owning this piece means supporting the continuation of these vital cultural arts.

Key Features:

• Authentic Traditional Craftsmanship: Handwoven using traditional raranga techniques.
• Sustainable & Sacred Materials: Harakeke ethically harvested from the weaver’s own ancestral whenua.
• Heirloom Quality: Features strong, braided muka handles for durability and timeless aesthetic.
• Unique Art Piece: Each kete is a one-of-a-kind work of art, bearing the subtle marks of its maker’s hands.
• Cultural Legacy: Directly supports an expert practitioner dedicated to preserving Māori and Pacific weaving knowledge.

Ideal for the discerning collector seeking an authentic piece of Aotearoa, or as a profound gift that carries a story of place, people, and purpose. 

Care Instructions: Keep dry and clean by gently wiping with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to preserve the natural fibre’s integrity.