Ipu Pungarehu

A handcrafted ashes vessel for a loved one’s final resting place ~ A natural and lasting tribute

A meaningful and culturally respectful Toi Māori memorial, handwoven in Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Choosing an Ipu Pungarehu allows families to place their loved one’s ashes in something made by hand, with intention and respect.

It is a vessel that can reflect:

• love
• remembrance
• whakapapa
• connection to whenua and tikanga
• the beauty of natural materials and traditional Māori weaving

For families seeking something meaningful, practical, and heartfelt, an Ipu Pungarehu offers a special way to honour a loved one.

It is suitable for:

• display in the home
• placement at the urupā
• burial

Two style options are available:

• Huapae – a lower, horizontal shape
• Poutū – a taller, upright shape

Both styles are made with the same care, purpose, and craftsmanship.

Handcrafted in Aotearoa (NZ) by “art by RIWA® Ltd”

Size: 25.5L x 13W x 12H cm – The Ipu Pungarehu is designed to hold a standard cremation box.

What is an Ipu Pungarehu?

An Ipu Pungarehu is a handwoven vessel designed to hold a standard cremation box with dignity, warmth, and meaning.

Created using traditional raranga māori techniques, each piece is woven from harakeke whā/rau (leaf) and muka (fibre), making it a natural and beautiful way to honour the memory
of a loved one.

For many families, it offers a more personal alternative to a plain ashes container, while also reflecting connection, care, and cultural significance.

Each Ipu Pungarehu is individually handcrafted in Aotearoa (NZ). As every piece is woven by hand from natural materials, no two are exactly the same. Small variations in tone, weave, and finish are part of the
character and beauty of the piece.
Each vessel is finished with a clasp or toggle. This may be replaced with a loved one’s own taonga, such as a pounamu pendant, allowing the vessel to carry even deeper personal meaning.