About Us

Kurawaka Aho Tangata began as a family journey in 2025.

In 2025 our son Makurangi wanted a break from school and was interested in the Gateway Program. Growing up we noticed Makurangi always had a talent in Art and at that time his uncle Keith Wihongi was carving caskets in Kaikohe on our Wihongi Whanau whenua. This was a perfect opportunity for both Makurangi and Keith to work together. During this time Makurangi learned the art of drawing designs, then eventually taking his turn at the carving.

It became a true apprenticeship.

Keith began carving caskets in 2009 when a friend Mr Kingi invited him to join in and learn the Art of carving. Keith relied on his own artistic talents and picked up carving quickly. A short time later his friend passed away, Keith carried the work on. To this day Keith continues to hand carve his coffins.

When Keith saw the commitment our son had of coming to him each week he offered to gift the business to him. As parents we saw both a responsibility and an opportunity and that is how Kurawaka Aho Tangata is here today.

Keith has helped and inspired us every step of the way in this new venture which we are extremely appreciative of.

We are happy to share our love for this mahi with every person we come in contact with a promise that every casket carries the care of whānau and the mana of the craft.

A group of people sitting on grass in a scenic outdoor setting with rolling hills and trees in the background under a cloudy sky.

Kurawaka Aho Tangata

Our Name

In Māori tradition, Kurawaka is the sacred place where Tāne created the first woman, Hineahuone, from the soil of Papatūānuku, our Earth Mother. It is where human life began and where our connection to the whenua was first formed.

Aho represents the thread that connects us, our whakapapa, our whānau and the generations that come before and after us. Tangata means people, reminding us that we are all part of this connection.

Together, Kurawaka Aho Tāngata reflects the thread that connects us all, from the whenua we come from to the whenua we return to.

This is at the heart of everything we do. We believe every life has a story worth honouring, and every person deserves to be farewelled with dignity, love and care.

As a whānau, we created Kurawaka Aho Tāngata with the belief that our loved ones deserve something meaningful as they begin their final journey. Our caskets are designed to honour the life lived, the memories shared and the whakapapa that lives on through our whānau.

Each design brings together cultural values and modern craftsmanship, with care taken to create something beautiful and meaningful. For us, it is about more than a casket. It is about honouring our loved ones, caring for our whānau and helping create a farewell that feels right for the people who matter most.

Coastal landscape with lush green shrubs and plants in the foreground, rocky cliffs, and a calm ocean under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Currently we have two designs available, with more options coming soon.

  • Shipping varies across New Zealand depending on your location. We can deliver the coffin to your address, or you may collect it from our warehouse in Auckland.

    Getting started is simple. Use our contact form or schedule a call and we’ll guide you through the next steps and answer any questions.

  • We combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and very efficient with delivery. It’s not just what we do it’s how we do it that sets us apart.

  • You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly within 1-4 hours.

  • We offer different payment options. Bank transfer is the main method of payment. Please feel free to contact us if your method of payment is not mentioned.

Contact Us

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