Forest & Bird Dune Duffle
Emplacement: Maunganui, New Zealand
FOREST & BIRD COLLABORATION: In celebration of our enduring adoration of the manu (birds) of Aotearoa, the Dune Duffle is a limited edition canvas weekender in a light sand colour. Inspired by the dunes, coastlines and forests our native birds rely on to survive, the Dune Duffle has been handmade by our artisans in Bali. The canvas is heavy duty automotive fabric from South Africa that has been repurposed. Inside, fine artist Georgette Thompson has depicted six birds in the botanical reference style. The original artwork has been screen printed by hand in Bali onto organic cotton to form the Dune Duffle lining. Made to be cherished by nature lovers and worn proudly, the Duffle&Co Dune Duffle is ready for any adventure. Purchase one of the limited 88 bags made and we will donate $88 straight to Forest & Bird to help them continue in their important mahi (work) of giving nature a voice. Repurposed heavy duty automotive cotton canvas $88 from each bag sold goes straight to Forest & Bird Limited edition - only 88 made x2 magnetic side pockets x2 secure zip pockets Adjustable detachable clip shoulder strap Reinforced zip and straps for extra carry strength Handprinted organic cotton lining depicting original artwork by Georgette Thompson Handcrafted 52cm (length) x 28cm (height) not including strap x 28cm (width) Fits within aircraft carry on sizing YKK brass hardware Capacity: 40.7 litres
Voyage
- Sourcing Fabric for the Dune Duffle
In South Africa we make use of surplus canvas from the Toyota car factory. Our skilled artisans cut around any imperfections to make use of the beautiful, heavy duty material.
- Designing
After the concept between Duffle&Co and Forest & Bird was in play, a chance meeting with fine artist Georgette Thompson in Ōtautahai saw the project take flight. “Georgette was next to us at a trade event, showing a large original oil painting of a tūi, which floored us,” says Stevenson. As an artist, Thompson specialises in capturing the personalities of native birds and has donated a significant amount to wildlife charities over the years. To celebrate Bird of the Year’s 2026 election year theme, Thompson’s rendered portraits include a bird from each of the bird ‘parties’: floor birds, sea birds, shy birds, shore birds, high birds and tree birds. "Creating art that gives back to our birds has been at the core of my practice for many years. So when Bee mentioned this collaboration, I jumped at the opportunity. Forest & Bird's mahi gives a voice to our birds, one that feels more important than ever before. I feel honoured that my little illustrations may play a small part in giving our birds a fighting chance," says- Thompson. Forest & Bird Fundraising Team Manager, Laura Mackie says the creativity and generosity behind this collaboration perfectly reflects the spirit of Bird of the Year. “Georgette’s artwork celebrates the beauty and character of Aotearoa New Zealand’s native birds, while Duffle&Co has created a product that allows people to proudly show their support for nature. We’re incredibly grateful that each bag sold will contribute directly to Forest & Bird's mahi to restore habitats, advocate for stronger environmental protections, and ensure our native species can thrive for generations to come.”
- Hand Making the Dune Duffle
Each bag is lined with GOTS certified organic cotton that is screen-printed by hand via the heritage craft our artisans practice. Our expert team then hand-stitch each bag to ensure a premium, durable finish. And finally they pack the bags and add their signature - a mark of pride - to the tag you have in your hand.
- Journey to you via Kāpiti
After the production of your bags is complete, they are carefully packed and collected by a courier service. The bags are then transported by plane with DHL Go Green, which is a service that utilises Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Upon arrival, they are delivered to our base on the Kāpiti Coast in Wellington via a DHL electric vehicle. Finally, your bags are sent out to you using recycled, compostable mailers.
Impacts
- B Corporation
- Fair Wages
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
- Reforesting