Te Kaahu
An Elevated Dining Experience
Brand
Copywriting
Photography
Social Media
Deliverables
Brand strategy & identity, Brand guidelines, Brand photography, Social & marketing assets
Client
Auckland Airport, Tainui Group Holdings, Pullman Hotels
Industry
Hospitality
Te Kaahu is a premium fine dining experience at the summit of Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport. Led by Executive Chef Nancye Pirini, it presents a modern expression of Aotearoa cuisine through exceptional local ingredients and warm hospitality. We created a culturally grounded brand that honours the restaurant’s name, gifted by Kiingi Tuheitia in memory of Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu. Woven with mana, ancestral story and a powerful sense of place, the identity elevates every aspect of the dining experience.
Brand Strategy
Te Kaahu is built around manaakitanga, quality and elevation. Its central idea, “Elevating the true experience of our place,” connects contemporary Aotearoa cuisine with Tainui ancestry and the hotel’s Sea to Sky narrative. Developed with cultural guidance, the bilingual brand story welcomes travellers through generosity, reverence and authentic place-based meaning.
Identity Strategy
A singular kaahu feather anchors the identity, symbolising leadership, dignity and mana while honouring Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu. Bespoke letterforms reference kupu whakairo, while charcoals, burnt oranges and golden yellows draw from kaahu plumage. Cloud-like textures, restrained photography and thoughtful te reo Maaori applications complete an elevated, culturally resonant system.
Project Team