About Tasman Canvas
Meet the Team
At Tasman Canvas, our strength lies in the people behind every project. Our experienced team brings together decades of craftsmanship, design innovation, and hands-on technical expertise. From marine and automotive covers to architectural structures and bespoke canvas work, every product is built with precision, care, and pride.
We believe good design starts with good communication. That’s why our team takes the time to understand your project — whether you’re fitting out a yacht, building a custom awning, or creating a one-of-a-kind tent. Every member of our crew contributes a specialist skill set, from pattern design and fabrication to finishing and installation, ensuring a result that’s not only durable but beautifully made.
We’re proud to be a small, skilled, and dedicated team based in Tasman, serving clients across New Zealand. When you work with Tasman Canvas, you’re not just getting a product — you’re partnering with a group of craftspeople who stand by their workmanship and love what they do.
Design
Our team of talented fabricators can design the items you require for just about any application, our experience is highly varied as our products show.
At Tasman Canvas we design most products in house but also work with architects and structural engineers . We can assist you with your design ideas and add the elements to make your project work.
Craftsmanship
We use the highest quality fabrics sourced from leading manufacturers and suppliers to maximise the lifespan of your product. We also maintain high standards
with the various components that we use to manufacture the various items we manufacture.
We use high UV life threads both By only using high quality options and designing for the full lifespan of the fabrics we endeavor to keep products viable for the maximum period possible.
Durability
We use the highest quality fabrics sourced from leading manufacturers and suppliers to maximise the lifespan of your product. We also maintain high standards
with the various components that we use to manufacture the various items we manufacture.
We use high UV life threads both By only using high quality options and designing for the full lifespan of the fabrics we endeavor to keep products viable for the maximum period possible.
Environmental sustainability
We work constantly to minimise our waste by repurposing waste materials into products that have a useful purpose such as shade sail fabric into durable shopping bags or canvas scraps into attractive gear bags. We use mesh offcuts as the breathable base layer to marine squabs.
All soft plastics and polystyrene as well as paper and cardboard are recycled.
We also educate our clients on how they are best able to prolong the life of their product with maintenance.
Founding Story
Our founding director, Rowan Boot, started sewing in 1989 after gaining a Diploma in Tailoring and Design. Moving on to outdoor fabrics in 1999, with the start of Origin Tents Ltd, he manufactured unique canvas tents for festivals and events.
In 2011 Co-Director Monique Patterson joined the business and Tasman Canvas was formed. Monique’s background is in Environmental Science, management and education.
As well as the manufacture of traditional fabric designs associated with residential, marine and commercial uses, we specialise in contemporary designs of traditional shelters such as tipis, bell tents and yurts.
We are known for our creative design ideas and innovative solutions. If you need something made in canvas or fabric, we can make it! We love the challenging designs. Many happy clients will testify to the quality, service and innovation provided for their home, sport or business.
Award Winning
Awards and Industry Recognition
Tasman Canvas is proud to be a member of the Advanced Textiles Association of New Zealand (ATA NZ) — formerly the Outdoor Fabric Products Association of New Zealand (OFPANZ) — and the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI).
Over the years, our craftsmanship and innovation have been recognised both nationally and internationally for excellence in design, fabrication, and sustainability.
- 2013: OFPANZ Award of Excellence and IFAI International Achievement Award for a council-approved semi-permanent dwelling inspired by the traditional Mongolian yurt (ger).
- 2017: OFPANZ Award of Excellence for our bespoke Tussock Bell Tent, created for a glamping site in Southland.
- 2023: ATA NZ Award of Excellence – Tension Membrane (under 100 sqm) for advanced architectural fabric design.
- 2023: ATA NZ Award of Excellence – Screens & Shades for our innovative use of a vertical motorised screen system to create a horizontal retractable shade.
- 2023: Highly Commended Award for our faithful recreation of a WWII tent for the New Zealand Army Officers’ Mess.
Interested in a custom project quote?
Get in touch with us for a personalised quote.