The Meaning of Koru
What is "The Koru Journey"?
A woman’s journey is like the unfolding fern frond. In her youth, she is full of energy and curiosity, like tender shoots reaching for the light. As she moves through life, facing both challenges and growth, she gains wisdom and strength. Each season brings transformation, where she releases what no longer serves her and embraces renewal. Like the fern’s resilience, she finds strength in times of difficulty and continues to grow. Through life’s cycles, she evolves, uncovering more of herself and finding fulfillment, much like the fern’s natural rhythm.
Our movement provides gatherings, goods, and services to support women through the different stages of their lives.
Unfurling Koru: New life, death, and the rebirth cycle
The Koru's circular and spiral shape is based on the structure of the unfurling native New Zealand silver fern frond.
New Beginnings
The unfolding frond of the Koru is indicative of new life, growth, and beginnings. It represents the cycle of life and the idea that life is an ongoing process of renewal.
Hope
The fern’s steady growth, even in the harshest of environments, whispers that hope endures, rising each day through adversity.
Strength
The fern is a hardy plant, and the Koru symbolises strength, endurance, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Growth
The circular shape represents perpetual movement and the inward coil signifies a return to the point of origin. Life brings a constant cycle of change and continuity.
Sarah's Trip in New Zealand
Carving discovered outside of Journey's End Hut, Orongorongo Valley.
Acknowledging the Roots of "Koru"
We use the word koru with respect and gratitude. It comes from the Māori language of New Zealand and describes the unfurling fern frond.
The Koru Journey is inspired by the imagery of this plant: the unfolding of new life, growth, hope, and resilience.
We also recognize the enduring presence, care, and contributions of the Māori people, whose deep connection to the land has nurtured and preserved its beauty and integrity for generations, as it continues to be experienced today.
We extend our thanks to the ancestral lands and waters of Titahi Bay, which have nourished, taught, and gifted us with insights and experiences that we now carry with us and share through our work in Canada and around the world.