As New Zealand’s creative scene continues to flourish, we introduce you to some of our favourite local weavers, jewellers, ceramicists and designers
6 of our favourite local designers you need to shop right now
As New Zealand’s creative scene continues to flourish, we introduce you to some of our favourite local weavers, jewellers, ceramicists and designers.
1. Bespoke Weaving
Laine Toia pays tribute to her roots through beautiful woven works.
Talented weaver Laine Toia uses natural materials to create unique wall hangings and other pieces influenced by her Maori heritage. “I come from a long line of weavers who made functional baskets and fishing nets for everyday life,” Laine says.
She learnt to weave as a child, but has added self-taught weaving techniques to her bow since launching her business, Bespoke Weaving. Much of her work is inspired by New Zealand landscapes. Laine also holds weaving workshops and teaches classes.
Shop: bespokeweaving.com
Follow: @bespokeweaving
2. At Large Audio
C.P. Moore and Sam Bennett craft high-end portable sound systems.
Bandmates and best friends C.P. Moore and Sam Bennett fit vintage suitcases with home audio speakers to create one-of-a-kind portable Bluetooth stereos. Their speakers are designed to move around the house with you, or tag along on a picnic or holiday.
The musicians, who play in the band Burn the Bridges, started their business four years ago, after struggling to enjoy music played on tinny portable speakers. Now, they custom-make speakers for clients and power events with their handmade PA system.
Shop: atlargeaudio.co.nz
Follow: @at_large_audio
3. Made of Tomorrow
Daniel Craig and Matthew Genefaas design Scandi-inspired essentials.
Homeware and stationery brand Made of Tomorrow is designed by entrepreneurs Daniel Craig and Matthew Genefaas and produced in Auckland by a talented team of makers. The couple met in 2013 at a fashion show and saw an opportunity to combine Matt’s design and photography skills with Dan’s business experience.
They noticed “a real gap in the market for products that are more targeted towards men, and that are also made in New Zealand”. Alongside Made of Tomorrow, they own Crawlers, an online store where you can buy all the edible insects your heart desires.
Shop: madeoftomorrow.com
Follow: @madeoftomorrow
4. Miss Changy
Ruby White, aka Miss Changy, is a multi-talented chef and ceramicist.
As well as making ceramics, Ruby White runs her own cafe, Small Fry at Te Tuhi gallery in Pakuranga, Auckland. “I’ve always been a maker; it’s something that keeps me going,” says the former Melbournite, whose Chinese name is Changy Jet. “To serve my food on handmade objects is something that brings me deep satisfaction.”
Ruby began holding pop-up food events while studying at Elam School of Fine Arts, signalling the start of Miss Changy. Ceramics are made to order and also occasionally stocked at Auckland store Widdess.
Follow: @rubyjetwhite
5. Crushes
Rose Hope and Sarah Firmston are friends, makers and store owners.
Sarah Firmston and Rose Hope started Crushes to fill a gap in their Auckland boutique, The Bread & Butter Letter. BABL, as it is affectionately known, stocks New Zealand-made and vintage pieces. “We were inspired by the other local suppliers we were facilitating and we wanted to get in on the action!” says Rose.
Production manager Beka Hope (pictured centre) helps the pair with their range of quirky products: candles, stationery, key rings, jewellery, mugs and more. “We especially wanted to provide New Zealand-made products at reasonable prices,” says Rose.
Shop: crushes.co.nz
Follow: @crushes.co.nz
Words by: Fiona Ralph.
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