Introducing ahu Boutique
ABOUT US
Ahu Boutique is a contemporary Māori fashion brand founded by Creative Director Adrienne Whitewood (Rongowhakaata, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāpuhi, Ngāi Tai).
Rooted in storytelling, culture, and design, Ahu Boutique exists to create an emotional connection to indigenous design through thoughtfully crafted kākahu.
Adrienne has lived in Rotorua her entire life, where her journey with fashion began at just eight years old, learning to sew from her kuia. That early foundation sparked a lifelong passion for clothing and design, leading her to study textiles and graduate from Auckland University of Technology in 2009.
OUR STORE
Before launching Ahu Boutique in 2013 at the age of 24, Adrienne worked in Māori tourism from the age of 16. This experience deeply influenced her desire to express culture through design. Today, she designs all prints in-house unless collaborating, using Māori concepts and visual storytelling to create pieces that carry meaning as well as beauty.
Her approach to design is deeply personal and inspired by everyday life, her surroundings, and her whānau. From clothing to home life, Adrienne brings a sense of intention and creativity into everything she does.
Adrienne works closely with her husband Hoete Mitai-Ngatai (Te Arawa, Mataatua), who supports the business through guidance in te reo Māori and cultural knowledge.
Together, they have four tamariki and are raising them in te reo Māori, with their whānau life closely woven into the heart of the business.
Adrienne is currently on her own te reo Māori journey as a full-time student at He Kāinga mō te Reo, continuing to deepen her connection to language, culture, and community, which flows back into her work and creative expression.
As a whānau-led business, Ahu Boutique is grounded in values of connection, growth, and purpose. The intention remains the same to honour Māori creativity and share it with the world.
ROTORUA STORE
Address:
1178 Eruera Street, Rotorua, New Zealand Call us:(07) 348 0110For product enquiries and to reach our store ahu email ahu.boutique@gmail.com
STORE HOURS
Monday - Friday: 10am - 4pm
Saturday: 10am - 3pm
Sunday: 10am - 2pm
