​​Katz Maihi & Beronia Scott

Katz Maihi, of Ngāti Whātua o Orakei, Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara, Tainui, Te Waiohua, and Ngā Puhi descent, is recognised as an accomplished artist, musician, carver, and Tā moko artist. Maihi's contributions to Toitu Design have established the organisation as a leader in mahi toi, earning it a reputation for expertise, authenticity, and high-quality standards.

Beronia Scott serves as the lead weaver at Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, showcasing her skills in raranga, the art of Māori weaving. Scott has been dedicated to sharing these traditional practices by leading whānau wānanga for several years.

Together, Maihi and Scott collaborated with a team in Brisbane to create the artwork titled Wāhine, commissioned by the Auckland Council for the new Te Waihorotiu Station threshold as part of the Te Hā Noa street upgrade project. This sculpture celebrates Māori culture, identity, and storytelling, serving as a universal representation of Māori womanhood rather than portraying any specific individual. It embodies themes of strength, presence, and connection, with rich cultural symbolism woven into every detail, from its adornments to its textures, which honour Māori artistic traditions and cultural knowledge.

Maihi and Scott engaged in a collaborative design process, merging digital development with community feedback. As the design evolved, digital models were shared with artists and community members, allowing for input that informed each stage of refinement. This iterative approach ensured the final piece was grounded in artistic vision and cultural significance, particularly regarding the Korowai and other customary elements.

The base pattern was 3d printed. Katz hand sculpted the cultural embellishments including the Hei Tiki (pendant), Heru (hair comb), and other cultural details. The Korowai was 3d modelled in close collaboration with Scott, accurately reflected the characteristics of a traditional woven cloak. Finally, the sculpture was cast in bronze and finished with a bespoke patina, with thoughtful highlights allowing bronze and gold tones to emerge from the surface, completing this remarkable tribute to Māori culture.