Kaka-aku is an exhibition featuring Tehani Ngapare Rau-Te-Tara Buchanan (Ngāti Rupe Makea, Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Mitiaro, Mangaia), Rosalie Koko (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Heretaunga, Olosega), Bobby Luke (Ngāti Ruanui, Taranaki) and Vince Ropitini (Taranaki, Ngāruahinerangi, Whakatōhea).

Through the forms of kākahu, tīvaevae and moving image, these artists honour the customary ways of their tūpuna while also offering invigorating adaptations that revitalise past traditions. In textile art, innovation is vital. Buchanan's use of the Japanese concept ofkintsugi reflects the beauty in imperfection and incompletion, while Koko's muka embroidery and Sāmoan motifs draw her cultures together. Luke's selection of garments and moving image works draw heavily on his matriarchal influences and Taranakitanga. Ropitini places importance on kaupapa Māori and mātauranga Māori led design while working with fashion to reconnect with his heritage. The artistic practices of kākahu and tīvaevae may seem diametrically opposed, but they both have roots in kaka-aku, literally meaning textile fibre. 

Kaka-aku considers the role that ringatoi Māori and Moana have to play in not only upholding, but advancing our art forms.