About Us

The foundation of MokoBandz lies in the fusion of traditional Māori artistry (Kirituhi / mokotuhi) with contemporary craftsmanship. The initial concept originated from a simple experiment when Malachi’s father requested artistic designs on his gumboots. This sparked the idea of developing gumboots featuring intricate Māori designs. Through continuous refinement and exploration of materials, the first successful pair was posted for sale on Facebook in early 2022, marking the beginning of MokoBandz.


The core of MokoBandz’s design philosophy is rooted in authenticity and respect for Māori culture. Each pair is individually designed by the team at Mokobandz, with designs reflecting fundamental values of Te Ao Māori. All products crafted by MokoBandz incite tuhi patterns that allow for broader accessibility while honoring cultural boundaries.


Since its inception, MokoBandz has maintained a focus on limited production to ensure quality and integrity in each piece. While the demand for MokoBandz continues to grow, the business remains deliberately small-scale, driven by the belief that sharing cultural expression is as valuable as commercial success.


MokoBandz represents more than a product line; it reflects a growing movement towards culturally grounded, artisan-driven businesses in New Zealand. The company stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Māori design and the potential for blending tradition with innovation in modern markets.

Manaakitanga

At MokoBandz, we believe in uplifting and supporting our community through every product we create. Manaakitanga drives us to craft each pair with care, ensuring our designs honor the stories, whakapapa, and identity of our customers while fostering respect and generosity in all that we do.

Kaitiakitanga

Our responsibility to protect and preserve Māori art and cultural practices is central to our work. Kaitiakitanga inspires us to ensure the integrity of Māori designs, respecting traditions while safeguarding the authenticity of our craft for future generations.

Whanaungatanga

Relationships are at the core of MokoBandz. From the initial design to the final product, we value the bonds formed with our customers and community. Whanaungatanga ensures that every pair of boots carries the spirit of connection – linking people to their roots, stories, and each other.

Tūrangawaewae

MokoBandz celebrates the importance of standing firm in one’s identity and place in the world. Tūrangawaewae reminds us to create products that reflect a sense of belonging and pride, empowering our customers to walk confidently in their cultural heritage.