Kia ora and Talofa!
Ko Whakatere te maunga
Ko Waima te awa
Ko Ngātokimatawhaora te waka
Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi
Ko Māhurehure te hapu
Ko Otātara te marae
Ko Irlene Mokaraka toku ingoa
Ko John Tuulama (aka Kopelani, aka Chef John) toku tāne. No Hāmoa ia.
these designs and products have been inspired by my love for urban streetwear, my children, my heritage and my own personal journey in relearning te reo Māori and also learning more of my husbands Gagana Samoa.
The name of the brand is inspired by my children, my 6 tama who I also hope will be inspired and encouraged to use more Māori and Samoan kupu/upu in their every day lives.
You will notice a heart shaped logo throughout our designs. This is a taro leaf and is a design that was gifted to us in Samoa 2017 when we started our business "Chef John Tours Samoa". This taro leaf brings back awesome memories for us so I wanted to reflect it in my designs.
Their are also designs in here that have been inspired by my upbringing in South Auckland, my life in Australia and Samoa and last but not least, my husbands talent and gift of cooking.
Ngā mihi,
Irlene Mokaraka
Disclaimer:
I am on a journey and still learning how to correctly spell and use the many kupu / upu (words) in both languages. I am bound to make mistakes and will happily correct them as I am being guided and advised. I apologise in advance for any mistakes I may make and do appreciate all your feedback as this will contribute to tthis journey. My husband is Samoan with his first and primary language being Samoan,.
Over time I hope to incorporate more reo and gagana into the website and value any recommendations and suggestions you might have.
Ngā mihi and Fa'afetai Lava
