Description:

Threatened Species: The Story of Loss & Hope is a textile surface pattern design collection that focuses on the biodiversity challenges facing Aotearoa New Zealand. More than 75% of the country's native species are at risk of extinction.
This project aims to raise awareness and inspire action to protect the unique taonga (treasures) of this land, highlighting their vitality and the importance of conservation efforts. The collection employs visual storytelling to illustrate the devastating impacts of introduced predators such as possums, rats, and mustelids, as well as the loss of natural habitats. It also celebrates the hope generated by the collective efforts of the volunteer community who are motivated to plant native trees, trap pests and predators to increase the presence of native species.

Design becomes a voice for advocacy in this collection, speaking through repeat pattern and imagery. Each pattern captures a different layer of the conservation story—from extinct species fading into memory, to vulnerable flora and fauna on the brink, to hopeful scenes of regeneration both within predator-free sanctuaries and in restored wild habitats. At its core, the concept explores duality: the tension between loss and hope. The collection is designed not only to educate but also to inspire action by humanising conservation and giving visual identity to the Predator Free movement. The goal is to evoke an emotional response first—and then channel that response into volunteerism and community support.

The visual language of the collection is rich, textural and emotive. Elements like the faded outlines of extinct species against backgrounds of devastated landscapes emphasise the urgency of conservation efforts. Designs depicting sanctuaries and thriving populations of flora and fauna celebrate resilience and provide a glimpse of what a restored environment could look like for threatened species like Kākabeak, Takahē, and Kiwi. These designs utilise vibrant colour palettes and intricate textures to evoke the beauty of the natural world.

To promote and inspire volunteer participation, the designs can be digitally printed on products made from natural fibres and sustainable materials. T-shirts, caps, backpacks, drink bottles, and beanies can be worn by conservation volunteers, and would be ideal for agencies or trusts like Predator Free NZ and the Department of Conservation (DOC) to distribute. Furthermore, proceeds from merchandise sales could fund future predator-free initiatives, embedding a circular economy model into the project.

By fusing compelling design with powerful storytelling, the project makes conservation visible, meaningful, and personally engaging. Rather than relying on fear or guilt as motivators, it embraces a message of hope—reflecting a broader social shift towards environmental responsibility. At the heart of the project is a celebration of community action, honouring the often-unseen contributions of local volunteers trapping, planting and weeding to restore native habitats. As part of a growing national movement, Threatened Species: The Story of Loss & Hope contributes to the collective goal of a Predator Free New Zealand 2050 and is dedicated to the conservation of our taonga, ensuring their preservation for the benefit of future generations.