This is a prototype representation of an entrance-way door handle designed as a practical project during my studies at the University of Canterbury, with the actual door handle being made for a new house being built for Garry and Robyn Howard.

Prototype shown has been made from high-density foam, laser engraved matai timber, and hand carved pounamu. Final anodised aluminium version is in development.

The “Nikau” door handle symbolises growth from the native rainforest of the West Coast. The pounamu awa/river represents the mighty Kawatiri/Buller river and the rollercoaster of life as we navigate its turbulent waters. Anodised aluminium ends integrate ‘harakeke/flax’ woven patterns that embodies the meaning of home, our connections with family, friends, and loved ones.

The materials are rooted in the history and materials of the West Coast. The gold anodised aluminium highlighting the colonial gold mining heritage, the native matai timber it’s old growth forests, pounamu represents the taonga of our awa (river) and the significance of the pounamu trails in our precolonial history.

As a fourth generation pakeha from Kawatiri/Westport the final product conveys the feelings and emotions of home, warmth of timber, strength of pounamu, longevity of life encapsulated through the Nikau, and our organic connection to the environment - the ‘Untamed Natural Wilderness’ of the West Coast.