Our Story

Tuppie was created by Joe and Kristin whose family is shaped by different cultures, shared values, and a deep respect for where they come from.

They are based in Auckland, NZ and are proud parents to four sons. Like many families in New Zealand, their story is a mix of cultures, journeys, and generations. 

Joe is of Samoan heritage, born in New Zealand to parents from Savai‘i, Western Samoa, who migrated here in the 1970s in search of a better life. 

Kristin is of New Zealand and Dutch heritage — born in New Zealand to a Kiwi mum and a Dutch father who himself was born in Indonesia. Kristin’s nickname growing up was “Tuppie”. When she was born, she was so small that her dad said she was like a tuppence (a twopence coin). The name stuck — and years later, it became the name of our brand.

Joe and Kristin are both late-70s kids, raised in the 80s and 90s — an era that shaped their love for colour, fun, and the simple joy of being a kid. Those influences, along with their respective cultures, naturally find their way into Tuppie.

Tuppie started from a shared desire to create something more meaningful than just clothing. They wanted to build a brand that celebrates culture, identity, and family — and one that helps pass those stories on to their children.

Like many families, they are on their own journey of learning more about their cultures and their roots. And as parents, they care deeply about making sure their children — and future generations — don’t lose that connection to who they are and where they come from.

Tuppie is our way of contributing to that. It’s about creating things our kids can grow up in, live in, and feel proud to wear.

It’s about Wearing Your Legacy.