This contemporary interpretation reimagines her not as a villain, but as a misunderstood guardian. Towering at over nine feet tall, Kuru embodies elements of the Kea and the Huia — birds known for their intelligence, beauty, and strength. Her wide, armed wings echo the defiant energy of the Kea, while long bird-like legs and a flowing feathered cloak mirror the grace of the extinct Huia.

Feathers bloom from her scalp in a glowing burnt orange, and her cloak — made of leathery seaweed — shimmers with intricate illustrations of Pikopiko (fern shoots) and Mānuka blossoms, the sources of her strength and nourishment. A pounamu eye glints from beneath her hood, anchoring her to her ancestors and the whenua she protects.

Why You'll Love It:

• Culturally Rich: Inspired by Kurungaituku, a lesser-known yet powerful figure in Māori myth.

• Visually Striking: Blends natural textures with imaginative detail and storytelling.

• Feminine & Fierce: A symbol of protection, strength, and sacred guardianship.

• A Conversation Piece: Invites deeper reflection on mythology, mana wahine, and our relationship to nature.

• Designed in Aotearoa: Created with cultural respect and artistic depth.

The Story Within the Art

Perched high in a Tōtara tree, Kuru watches in sorrow as Hatupatu stalks her beloved children — the birds and insects she fiercely shields. In this moment, she is not a monster. She is a guardian — grieving, powerful, and aware.

This print is not just a tribute to a mythical being — it’s a call to see beyond the surface, to honour the narratives passed through generations, and to reconnect with the mauri (life force) of land and legend.

Let Kuru watch over your space — a reminder of the strength that lies in guardianship, grief, and grace.