Our Story.

I have 11 siblings, I know that might seem crazy, but not once in my entire life has this ever seemed like a bad thing to me. Actually this has given me an understanding of something I am forever grateful for, connection. Having both a large and super close family, created a sense of community for me, one filled with memories, joy and wisdom. One tradition passed down through my family and my Māori culture was the placenta burial practice or whenua ki te whenua and this is where the story of Ūkaipō begins. 

Over 20 years ago, my sister Grace was born. My mother was determined to create a legacy for her children and their future generations and wanted to bury the placenta at my Nan’s home, the family homestead, where she felt most grounded. This is when her research began. For her the practice symbolised who you are and where you are from or Whakapapa. She wanted herself and her children to be connected to this sacred land, knowing from that point on, me and my siblings would continue her legacy creating eternal memories. 

The idea for our Rau Whenua box came from more humble beginnings, my mother felt that this tradition was something of beauty. The current method of using a hospital plastic bag didn’t portray the true meaning behind the practice and made it unappealing for her. Other more traditional methods such as an Uku (Clay pot) or Harakeke basket (Flax basket) were inaccessible and too hard to find or make. She wanted to find something more contemporary, something beautiful, that added value and meaning to the practice. Throughout the 20 years of research my mother did, she went through many different designs both traditional and contemporary. Finally deciding all these years later on our current Rau Whenua box as for her it was beautiful, meaningful and an accessible contemporary way to add value to a tradition passed down through her family. 

This is where my story and the birth of Ūkaipō begins.

During Aotearoa’s first lockdown I decided that I wanted to bring all of my mum’s hard work and research to life. Originally I was only focused on doing our Rau Whenua box, but through discussions with the many people who have helped me grow and shape Ūkaipō we decided to create our placenta planting package. For me this package represents a unique and special way for mothers to cherish the connection with their child and Papatūānuku. A beautiful and personal gateway to new life, something I think all mothers will benefit from.