Kaiwaka Clothing was established in 1975 by Ross Stewart. Ross was a fifth generation local farmer in the small Northland settlement, so he understood what it means to work outdoors, which is reflected in the clothing the company produces. Nearly five decades later Ross’s sons and grandsons have a big part in the business, including son Royden.

“We are still farmers at heart, though only have a small block of 30 acres now, as Kaiwaka Clothing takes up much of our time and attention,” says Royden

Staying close to the land includes responding to farmers’ suggestions to offer a wool lined jackets as part of the Kaiwaka range: a suggestion that has finally become reality and is gathering momentum.

Northland-based PGG Wrightson Wool representative Danielle Boyd is a walking advertisement for the raincoat, helping put the word out.

“I absolutely love my jacket. When I’m wearing it I don’t have to wear so many layers, which means I’m not restricted with movement from being too rugged up. When you put the hood on after it has been raining for a bit, it doesn’t give you that horrible drip down the back of your neck, and you don’t get that wet, cold feeling when you are soaked. Hands down, it is the best rain jacket I’ve had.”

Danielle’s father Kevin, who farms just out of Dargaville, wears a Kaiwaka wool lined raincoat too, and agrees with his daughter:

“It’s really good, keeps you warm, and cuts down the wind. I can’t go past it, it’s better than all the other jackets,” says Kevin.

Royden makes a point of staying in touch with farmers, who are Kaiwaka Clothing’s main customers.

“Our brand’s strength is in the agriculture market. Although previously we have always used a synthetic lining, a big push from wool companies, supported by New Zealand sheep farmers, prompted us to do something with wool. Our product is New Zealand made, and our focus is to keep it that way.

“New Zealand wool is such an awesome, natural product. Customers tell us that if they are wearing one of our wool-lined jackets, they won’t get too hot or too cold: being a natural fibre, with those unbeatable qualities, wearing this will keep your temperature balanced. Even if it gets a bit wet, with moisture on the wool, you won’t feel cold and clammy,” he says.

Kaiwaka Clothing’s range includes all types of fit-for-purpose, high performance wet weather gear. They also make bespoke branded outdoor workwear for the likes of large farming businesses Tiroa Station, Te Hape Station and Wharekiri Station.