Here in Aotearoa, we hold the privilege of sitting far from the centres of mass production and global manufacturing. It allows us to think differently by looking inward, to recognise the richness that already exists within our landscapes and coastlines. Even within our small country, we have an abundance of material and knowledge. So rather than chasing something new, I want to recognise the significance of what we already have, particularly with underutilised or wasted materials. 

Kina, the New Zealand sea urchin, is loved by locals as food, yet in the ocean, it is often labelled a pest. When its shells are improperly discarded, they become harmful to both people and the environment. But this byproduct still holds so much potential in its intricate form. I want to reveal the life that continues after consumption of these Kina and tell this story through the products in people’s homes. I am approaching homeware design through a series of material explorations, by investigating the properties of Kina and its potential applications.