Boh Runga was born out of a chance opportunity for Boh to design a jewellery collection for bullion business The New Zealand Mint. Boh bravely jumped in head first and set about creating something a little different. She visited every jewellery store she could find, and found her niche in meaningful designs based on New Zealand native birds, with each piece originating from her hand drawn concepts and telling of each story in what would become her signature story cards. As a self-confessed ‘disorganised creative’, Boh partnered with friend Toyah Attwell. While Boh was sketching initial design concepts, Toyah was working with local suppliers on samples and setting up the brand’s first website. Their complementary skill sets have kept the business both grounded and dynamic. The ‘Birdland’ collection was adored and continues to set the tone for Boh Runga’s trademark meaningful jewellery for gifting.

Before I started designing jewellery I thought about what kind of jewellery I would like to create. I wanted longevity. I wanted something for everyone; inclusivity and a sense of belonging. I didn’t want to follow trends or be beholden to the tides of fashion. I wanted jewellery that people felt held meaning for them and that would be gifted with that in mind. A reminder of home, of loved ones and of how unique New Zealand is. That was my approach. New Zealand's birdlife was my first foray into design and came about from wanting a little bit of home for people to take with them everywhere. The final piece was the packaging. A pretty, round box in a pale blue that evoked a clear summer sky was dressed in a ribbon tied in a bow. It was your gift already wrapped up and ready to give. I love designing and I am so grateful that the jewellery is still going strong after all these years.