Karen Walker releases second collection with Rise Beyond the Reef

By MiNDFOOD
Two of the hand-woven styles in the new collection. Photos / Karen Walker
Two of the hand-woven styles in the new collection. Photos / Karen Walker
Karen Walker is teaming up with Fiji non-profit organisation Rise Beyond the Reef on a second collection of hand-woven bags.

The chic-meets-utility style of the Kiwi fashion label, led by Walker herself, has again been blended with traditional craftsmanship of women from remote Fijian communities to produce the bags.

“This collaboration is a unique opportunity to celebrate the craftsmanship of Fijian artisans while bringing their work to a global market,” says Walker.

“Fiji holds a deep connection for me and my family, and I’m proud to continue working with Rise Beyond the Reef to create something that reflects both the beauty and resilience of its people.”

The new styles are available in Karen Walker stores and online. Photo / Karen Walker

This year there are four bag styles, each produced in limited quantities, that include woven construction, leather handles and Karen Walker logo strap detailing.

• Pandanus Tote and Backpack: Handwoven in Ra Province on the northern part of Viti Levu, these designs reflect the local community’s commitment to sustainable craftsmanship. Every step, from planting the voivoi (pandanus) to preparing and weaving it, involves a collaborative process that brings together artisans.

• Basket Tote (Small and Large): Crafted with 100% natural fibres on Kioa Island these totes are the result of a meticulous process. Sasa (coconut palm spine) is harvested, split into small sticks, bundled, and wrapped with voivoi leaf, then woven into the final form. Kioa, a remote island where getting in and out is both limited and costly, is home to artisans supported by Rise Beyond the Reef, working across generations to preserve and promote traditional skills.

Karen Walker (front middle) with some of the women from Verevere Village involved with production of the new collection. Photo / Supplied

The handwoven pieces are then sent to Sabeto Valley, where the Rise Beyond the Reef Studio Collection team manages the leather finishing and final assembly, providing valuable job training to youth from partner rural communities, before the completed bags are shipped to New Zealand.

Established in 2014, Rise Beyond the Reef supports rural indigenous women and their families in Fiji by creating sustainable work pathways. These handmade goods reflect ecological, cultural, and social values while promoting climate-smart agricultural initiatives.

“Working with Karen Walker has been a powerful collaboration,” says Janet Lotawa, co-founder and director of Rise Beyond the Reef.  “Together, we’re not only bringing beautiful products to market but also driving real change in rural communities, empowering women, and preserving traditional skills.”

The collection is available now at in Karen Walker stores and at karenwalker.com.