Bringing a touch of culture to the golf course is Manu Golf with their latest drop of Polynesian inspired golf polo shirts.
Manu Golf is a newly established brand founded and owned by Tongan-Cook Islander Tunganekore ‘Kevin’ Fuavao.
His father hails from Holonga, Vava’u and Koulo, Ha’apai in Tonga, and his mother hails from Atiu, Cook Islands.
The creation of Manu Golf stems from Kevin’s desire to be represented as a Polynesian.
“Throughout my life, I had to navigate classrooms, lecture rooms, workplaces and golf courses without seeing many people who looked and talked like me.
“[It] led to a constant feeling of wanting to shrink and not wanting to bring attention to myself. That invisibility fuels my purpose for this brand: a platform where Polynesians, and any other groups longing to be seen, can wear their stories with pride,” says Kevin.
The word ‘manu’ translates to animal or bird. In golf, bird refers to the term birdie which describes a score of 1 under par on a hole. By wearing Manu Golf, it allows you to channel your inner ‘animal mentality’ on the course.
The Day 1 Drop consists of 2 polos – Island Bloom and Island Night. The Island Bloom polo is integrated with colourful Pacific frangipani flowers scattered on a baby blue base, whereas the Island Night polo flaunts an array of palm trees and coconut trees on a black and blue base.
Created with 92% polyester, 8% spandex with UPF 50+ sun protection, 4-way stretch, dri fit and anti-wrinkle, you’re guaranteed to look good while out on the greens.
Kevin’s love for golf developed during covid pandemic in Australia in 2020.
“It was a sport that allowed me to get out of the house during lockdown.
“Since retiring from playing rugby overseas, it has allowed me to stay active and I now play with friends and continue to participate in a competitive sport,” says Kevin.
The designer is on a mission to grow Polynesian representation.
“It’s not just a clothing brand. Manu Golf represents empowerment, education and diversity,” he says.
“There is a movement of a lot more diverse people getting into golf and I want this apparel to be an option for people to represent this growth and the large diversity we have here in New Zealand.”
With plans to create new drops, Kevin’s Day 1 Drop is a limited edition and will only be sold once.
The brand is also looking to collaborate with different golfing groups and designers who understand Polynesian culture to create a limited edition with a goal of sponsoring a Polynesian golfer in the PGA or LIV competition.
Manu Golf Apparel is ready for purchase here.
