Janiqua _
Product Design BDes
Otago Polytechnic
Graduates: 2025
Specialisms: Product Design / Design for Social Good / Sustainable Design
My location: Dunedin, New Zealand
Janiqua _
First Name: Janiqua
Last Name: _
University / College: Otago Polytechnic
Course / Program: Product Design BDes
Graduates: 2025
Specialisms: Product Design / Design for Social Good / Sustainable Design
My Location: Dunedin, New Zealand
About
Kia ora, I'm a Product Design graduate from Otago Polytechnic in Dunedin, completing my degree with distinction. My work is hands-on, thoughtful, and often carries narrative or meaning. I am drawn to projects that challenge assumptions, improve experiences, or make a positive impact.Thank you for exploring my portfolio. If you’d like to chat or collaborate, I’d love to hear from you.Ngā mihi,Janiqua
Whenua ki te Whenua is a ceremonial placenta burial kit, inspired by the Māori tradition of returning the placenta (whenua) to the land (also whenua). While originally intended as a deep dive into the remarkable properties of New Zealand strong wool, the project evolved into something deeper through conversations with parents, midwives and cultural advisors. Recognising the diversity of personal and cultural approaches to this ritual, I designed three distinct ipu whenua (placenta vessels), each with its own symbolic form. The biodegradable vessels are made from 100 percent New Zealand strong wool and are supported by booklets that guide families in creating a ceremony that feels right for them. This project became an invitation to honour birth with the same depth and reverence we often reserve for death. Whenua ki te Whenua was awarded a Gold at the Wool Dynamics Student Design Awards (2024) and two Golds at the Best Design Awards (2025). Wool Dynamics judges’ feedback: Recognised for excellence in the innovative use of New Zealand strong wool, cultural relevance and sustainable focus. Best Design Awards judges’ feedback: Celebrated for its refined use of shape and textile, rich storytelling and embodiment of tikanga Māori. Judges described it as a taonga with deep purpose and significance, and a design well deserving of its two Gold awards. Kaitautoko / Contributors Tereinamu Hakopa Deb Beatson Kimberly Smith Kaiwhakaako / Lecturers Tim Armstrong Angus Lewry