Māori fashion designer and Poutama client, Nichola Te Kiri – founder and proud owner of Nichola – Designs of Aotearoa was the main creative behind the Women’s Rugby World Cup Player of the Match Trophy.
Earlier this year, she was approached by the Mastercard team about this project. Nichola says she was honoured to craft and design a taonga (treasure) that will be seen on the world stage showcasing our culture, and honoured to be able to create something that acknowledges these amazing athletes involved in this World Cup event.
Mastercard worked with cultural advisor Piri Rongo Hetet-Wairau and Nichola to authentically represent Aotearoa’s culture and identity through the concept, symbolism, and design of the trophy.
Nichola adds “I am fiercely proud of this taonga which essentially is about honouring women. The shape, patterns and sound it makes represents whatu kākahu worn by a kaikaranga. This trophy acknowledges these amazing rugby superstars and athletes, their commitment, dedication and achievements, leading up to and during each game”.
More information about Nichola’s involvement of the Rugby World Cup Project can be found here.
