About us - Ko Wai Mātou?
Welcome to Maia’s Closet!
Our Vision and Values
Maia's Closet is a Polynesian-owned garment rental service based in Auckland, Aotearoa. Founded by Hinemaia Waiti (Wahine Māori & Mā'ohi), our vision is clear: to establish a Polynesian-owned business that celebrates Indigeneity and supports sustainable fashion practices.
We believe that fashion should be a form of empowerment, driven by our core values: inclusivity, affordability, and empowerment.
Our Story
The idea for Maia's Closet was born from a very personal and challenging time. After a year of applying for countless jobs without success, I felt hopeless. It was a moment where I realised I couldn't afford to wait for someone else to give me a chance, I had to take action and build something impactful myself. This personal journey fuelled the commitment to create a business that addresses glaring gaps in the local rental market. I noticed that:
- Most rental companies primarily stock small sizes (typically sizes 6-10), leaving out sizes 12 and above.
- There was a lack of Polynesian or Māori owned rental businesses.
- Very few rental services stocked Māori and Polynesian-styled clothes, which appeal to Polynesian women.
Maia's Closet came to life by merging the need for stylish, affordable event wear with a commitment to Māoritanga and Polynesian culture, offering an inclusive platform.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Fashion
By choosing to rent from Maia's Closet, you are actively participating in the slow fashion movement and embracing a more responsible consumer choice.
How We Practice Sustainability: We prioritise recycling garments by renting the same beautiful outfit multiple times. Instead of encouraging the purchase and disposal of new clothing. This approach directly reduces clothing waste and minimises the environmental impact associated with fast fashion production.
What We Rent: Our Collections
We specialise in garment rental. Our collections are curated to cover all your event needs
Elevated: Chic meets baddie. The Elevated Collection has you covered for serving effortless looks at your next 21st, formal, and every event worth dressing up for!
Nights Out: The Nights Out Collection is your go-to for every night out at the club, drinks with the girls, and last-minute Friday plans!
Festival: Our Festival Collection brings all the summer baddie energy! Think standout dresses, skirts, and sets that move with you from concerts to festivals and everything in between.
Vintage: The Vintage Collection brings secondhand, preloved, thrifted pieces with 2000s vibes: bold, fun, and different. Stand out with looks that no one else can copy.
Tiare Collection: The Tiare collection features pieces from Pasifika-owned brands that celebrate culture, pride, and confidence. Designed to make you feel grounded in your roots while keeping it effortlessly chic.
Hine Collection: The Hine Collection celebrates Māoritanga through bold designs. Each garment features Maori patterns, bringing together culture, confidence, and style.