Once vivid in red and purple, the dyed flax fibres of this kete have faded to muted shades of pink and grey.

Ripeka Te Owai and her husband, Ruera Te Naihi, lived on the south side of the remote Waiatoto River near Haast, where they operated the ferry crossing.

On the night of 14 October 1907, Ruera returned from a fishing trip and suffered a fatal heart seizure as he stepped from his canoe. Ripeka discovered his body in a creek backwater less than 40 metres from their home. Grief-stricken, she crossed the river and walked 13 kilometres north to seek help from the Eggeling family at Okuru.

In gratitude for Annie Eggeling’s kindness and support, Ripeka wove this kete as a gift of thanks.

Hokitika Museum Collection #011955

Ripeka Te Owai with her husband Ruera Te Naihi and a relative at the Ferryman’s cottage near Waiatoto River.