The flag was created in 1989 by Hiraina Marsden, Jan Dobson and Linda Munn, with the wider collective kaupapa of Te Kawariki contributing to its development. Linda Munn has also emphasised that the flag came from a collective process rather than being the work of three artists alone.
The BuyWiise Tino Rangatiratanga Collection honours one of Aotearoa's most recognisable symbols of Māori identity, self-determination and collective strength.
The Tino Rangatiratanga flag was developed in 1989 by Hiraina Marsden, Jan Dobson and Linda Munn, through a collective kaupapa associated with Te Kawariki, and was first unveiled at Waitangi in 1990. In 2009, it was selected as Aotearoa New Zealand's national Māori flag following nationwide consultation.
For us, wearing the Tino Rangatiratanga design is more than wearing a symbol. It is about understanding and respecting the kaupapa behind it.
Te Kore
Black represents Te Korekore — the realm of potential being and the darkness from which creation emerged.
Te Ao Mārama
White represents Te Ao Mārama — the realm of being and light.
Te Whai Ao
Red represents Te Whai Ao — coming into being — and Papatūānuku, the Earth Mother and sustainer of life.
The Koru
The koru represents the unfolding of new life, renewal and hope for the future.
Our Kaupapa
Each piece provides an opportunity to carry the symbol with understanding, respect and pride.
Tino Rangatiratanga is not simply something to wear. It carries a history, a kaupapa and a continuing aspiration for Māori self-determination.
At BuyWiise, we aim to present this collection in a way that respects the origins, meaning and significance of the flag and acknowledges the collective kaupapa from which it emerged.
He mana tō tātou. He reo tō tātou. He whenua tō tātou.
Our people have mana. Our people have a voice. Our people have a place of belonging.
Tino Rangatiratanga — stand proud, know the kaupapa, carry it forward.
Designer attribution: The Tino Rangatiratanga flag was created in 1989 by Hiraina Marsden, Jan Dobson and Linda Munn, through a collective process involving Te Kawariki. This collection description does not claim that the products themselves were designed by the original flag designers.
