How did I get here?
My story
Awa Woodwork was born from a deep connection to the rivers and forests of New Zealand.
Raised in West Auckland, I was fortunate to grow up immersed in nature, with parents who ran an outdoor adventure training company. Much of my childhood was spent in the Waitakere ranges, rock climbing, abseiling, canyoning and camping —experiences that fostered a deep reverence for the wilderness within me.
From the age of 6, I pursued excellence as an artistic gymnast, dedicating 14 years to training and competition.
This discipline instilled in me a meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering drive for perfection.
Though injury ended my gymnastics career, it shaped the resilience and precision I bring to my craft today.
Upon the completion of my Secondary school education I studied science at AUT for a year with the intention of eventually becoming a radiographer.
It wasn't for me in the end, after discovering that I really enjoyed working with my hands I decided to transition into the construction industry at the age of 20, where I spent a decade mastering the art of building.
Everything from full renovations of relocatable homes to $20 million architectural builds from foundation to finish.
What drives me?
Inspiration
The story of the beginning of Awa woodwork is deeply personal one.
In 2016, my life took an unexpected turn when I lost my mother to a sudden stroke.
Struggling to process the loss, in 2018 I embarked on a solo cycling journey along the West Coast of New Zealand’s North Island—a 1,200-kilometer expedition of self-discovery and healing.
For three weeks, I explored the rugged coastline and my own emotions, finding solace and clarity among the black sand beaches.
During this journey I encountered Taranaki glass artist GaS Studios whose precision and artistry inspired me deeply, eventually leading to the inception of my first woodworking project.
Beginning with a custom macrocarpa case for a piece of GaS Studios glass art.
Since then, my skills and my passion for woodworking have grown immensely.
Woodworking serves as my way of connecting to, and honouring the past whilst fostering mindfulness and creativity in the present.
My intention is to craft meaningful pieces that resonate with others in the future.
What makes this timber so Special?
New Zealand Native Riverwood
Made from New Zealand Native timbers that have been recovered from the riverbeds of Northland.
Species range between Kauri, Matai, Rimu, Totara, Kahikatea and more.
These old growth timbers have been preserved naturally by the cold, low oxygen environment of the riverbed, their grain features accentuated and water-coloured by minerals in the river sediments over centuries.
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