My Contribution

My main role in this project was creating the 3D modelling and animated elements for the app as well as producing the explainer video. I worked on the 3D phone and app UI animations and brought the visual language of the Pua flowers to life.

Evolving the Kupu Experience

Kupu has already made a strong impact on the revitalisation of te reo Māori in Aotearoa by using AI to bring language learning into everyday moments. Spark invited us to imagine the future of Kupu while staying true to its kaupapa. Our team created Tipu, a gamified learning feature that empowers users to whakatipu i tō reo or grow your language.

Designing the 3D Pua System

Users nurture their own 3D Pua which draw inspiration from kōwhaiwhai and whakairo forms. Each Pua carries koru, koiri, ngutu kura, and mangopare elements that create a personal connection to growth. These flowers appear on a shared map to encourage collective progress and friendly competition. With Tipu Teams, users can also form groups with whānau and friends to strengthen motivation through shared learning.

Identity Rooted in Te Ao Māori

The design identity is rooted in te ao Māori. A custom typeface uses repeating line forms seen in whakairo panels to tell stories and uplift the language. Refreshed icons follow the same system to tie the visual language together.

Collaboration and Cultural Guidance

This project was shaped by collaboration with Spark and educators and guided by tikanga, kawa, and mātauranga Māori. Through ako we shared knowledge, built trust, refined ideas, and aligned outcomes with cultural values.

Vision for Kupu 3.0

Kupu 3.0 is imagined as a tūī soaring across Aotearoa, scattering the seeds of te reo and inspiring rangatahi to embrace the language in their everyday lives.