When Noa Blanket Co. released its latest collection, Te Whare o Rongo, the response was immediate. Within four hours, every piece was spoken for – a sell-out that underscores not only the brand’s growing influence, but also the hunger for design rooted in story, culture, and care.
Drawing on the guiding influence of Rongo – the atua of peace, reconciliation, and balance – co-founders Josh and Whakaawa Te Kani created a collection of intricately woven blankets that speaks directly to the mood of the times. “In times like these where globally and locally, we feel the pressure of unrest and uncertainty, Rongo reminds us of the strength found in stillness and the importance of protecting our inner peace – even when things are out of our control,” shares Whakaawa Te Kani.
Comprising three limited-edition designs, each blanket embodies a theme of peace. He kokonga ngākau invites the wearer to look inward through reflection and compassion. Tahua-roa speaks to the daily practice of manaaki, celebrating community and unity through the simple ritual of being together. Finally, Ōrongonui honours the cyclical renewal of life.
“This collection is an ornament of praise for those who seek peace within and share it outward through their words and actions,” says Te Kani. “Our hope is that when people wrap themselves in our blankets, they feel more than warmth they carry with them – respite, reprieve, recovery, rest and resilience.”
Te Whare o Rongo’s resonance is in keeping with Noa’s ethos: design as storytelling, craft as connection. “For us, design is not just about what something looks like, it’s about what it holds,” explains Te Kani. “Every thread carries intention, every pattern speaks to whakapapa, memory and meaning. Embedding narrative into our designs is how we keep our culture alive and evolving.”
It is this fusion of story and craft that has propelled Noa Blanket Co. to the forefront of Aotearoa’s design landscape. Earlier this year, their impact was recognised at the FQ Fashion Awards 2025, where they received the Contribution to Māori Fashion award — a celebration of their ability to weave heritage, hope, and meaning into every piece.
For the couple, seeing a new collection resonate with their community and sell out in mere hours has been “nothing short of humbling and inspiring”.
“Every positive response feels like a quiet celebration, a sign that what we’re doing matters, not just as design, but as something real and heartfelt,” says Te Kani. “It’s proof that the stories, care and intention we pour into every blanket are being embraced and carried forward by the people who wrap themselves in them.”
