Cath Brown QSM  was a master weaver and educator whose lifelong dedication to Māori textile traditions helped revitalise and strengthen the art of raranga across Aotearoa. Raised at Taumutu on the shores of Te Waihora, she began weaving in her youth and went on to study with master weavers, combining deep whakapapa knowledge with a commitment to education and innovation.

Through decades of teaching and organising, Brown played a central role in the resurgence of Māori weaving. She led workshops and national hui, supported the formation of Te Roopu Raranga Whatu o Aotearoa, and was instrumental in curating major exhibitions that brought Māori weaving to wider audiences in Aotearoa and internationally.

Her weaving was grounded in cultural practice and spiritual connection to whenua and whānau. Known for both technical mastery and the integrity of her materials and processes, Cath Brown created work that honoured tradition while guiding the next generations of weavers with aroha, strength, and vision.

‍