A cloak (korowai) of woven phormium fibre (New Zealand flax) with square black and brown string decoration, a finger-woven embroidered edge (taniko) and tassels (huka huka).

Ceremonial shoulder cloaks of this kind are worn by high-status Māori. Though typically made from kiwi feathers, this cloak was prepared using flax in order to protect the sacred bird. The flax is softened by soaking in hot water and then beaten to create white, malleable fibres. The tassels (huka huka) are prepared in the same way and dyed black using mud and pigments from the tutu plant. Weaving begins from the bottom edge; here a pattern called waharua has been used.

This cloak was specially commissioned for presentation to Queen Elizabeth II and was made by Mrs Hera Rogers over a period of four months. See 'Cloaks for Royalty', New Zealand Weekly News, 24 February 1954, p. 15.