Kowhaiwhai
is the name given to the traditional maori patterns that are everywhere in maori art and traditional maori buildings.

Patriot: Ten Guitars
In 1998 I was approached by a New Zealand sculptor, Michael Parekowhai, and commisioned to build a artwork of ten acoustic archtop instruments as well as 4 artist proofs. Each instrument was adorned with a different kowhaiwhai pattern in paua running around the outside edge of the soundboard. This was possibly the first time that kowhaiwhai patterns were used on a guitar.
The time frame to complete the project was very tight so I built the ten guitars and then moved on to build the 4 artist proofs. Having never built an archtop before, it was a great apprentiship and I learnt a lot in the process. When I built the 4 artist proofs I took my lead from the best of the first ten. I was also unhindered by a looming deadline so it is safe to say that as guitars, the artist proofs are superior to the art work in general.......

Rosette
I first inlayed a kowhaiwhai pattern in a rosette in my own work at a client's request .  Since then I have designed and inlayed other kowhawhai patterns and they have now become a popular request as a custom option. You can choose one of my present designs or upon request, I will design a new kowhaiwhai pattern for your instrument. Kowhaiwhai are one of the true signatures of New Zealand.