Tivaevae designed, cut, and tacked by 'Ei Moana
Please note: The image shown is for reference only. You may not be purchasing this exact tivaevae.

This tivaevae is sold as-is and will require hand stitching to complete its final appearance. Ei Moana consultants supports the Cook island Mama's who have time and space to complete your tivaevae as an additional service.

The design is inspired by the Kaute, a beautiful flower found across Polynesia. Kaute are not only adored for their big beautiful blooms, they hold meaning for our people that tell of sustainability, vision, and innovation. The kaute plant was used to make tapa, the natural fiber and fabric of pre arrival of missionaries and early settlers.

Tivaevae is a reflection and tribute to the rich agricultural landscapes of the Pacific Islands. This tivaevae is dynamic, intricate and once completed will make a beautiful gift for your special loved one, or you can start or add to your collection as family heir looms.

Colours:

Backing: Baby Blue
Designs: Purple

Size:

Super King

Optional: You can pick your colours and designs, contact 'Ei Moana and book a consultation.

Please note: Our Tivaevae are made to order. Please allow 5-7 business days from purchase to when you receive your order.

Tivaevae Kaute (Hibiscus)

$670.00

Quantity

Dry cleaned, do not wash.
The tivaevae (also spelled tivaivai) is a traditional form of textile art in the Cook Islands, known for its bold, colorful appliqué designs and deep cultural significance. Here's an overview of its history:

Origins of Tivaevae in the Cook Islands

Introduced in the 19th Century
Tivaevae was introduced to the Cook Islands by Christian missionaries, particularly from the London Missionary Society in the mid-to-late 1800s. Missionary wives taught local women European quilting and embroidery techniques as part of domestic training and Christian values.

Adapted with Island Aesthetics
Over time, Cook Islands women adapted these foreign techniques, creating a unique art form that reflected Polynesian identity and values. Instead of European floral patterns, they incorporated local motifs like taro leaves, hibiscus flowers, breadfruit, and sea life.
Ei Moana Tīvaevae create meaningful opportunities for kōrero — gentle, grounding discussions with your loved ones.
They invite you to sit together, share knowledge, learn, grow, and strengthen your connections.

This is more than a gift — it is a journey shaped by the space and time you create when you gather, sit, and tuitui (stitch) together.

Each tīvaevae purchase comes with a QR code linking you to a special video from co-founder, creator, and practitioner Repeka George-Koteka, who will guide you through the importance of your tīvaevae journey and how to honour the experience as a living cultural practice.

Tivaevae Kaute (Hibiscus)

Looking after your Tivaevae

History of Tivaevae in the Cook islands

Creating meaningful opportunities for korero

🌺Made to ORDER