The side borders of this design are inspired by ranges that border the expanse of the valley, displayed in the woven body of the blanket. Lined with rows of niho taniwha (sawed tooth).  Displaying the many family houses that populate the valleys of home, niho taniwha is reflective of the tenacious endeavor of the people to care and provide for family and community.

The waharua within the main decorative border reflect the sheltering refuge of Te Whārua, while the black warp is accentuated here to reflect the shadows cast by the forest canopy. These motifs describe best practice for how we engage with the environment and the people around us in order to thrive together.