The Kea (Nestor notabilis), is an endangered native New Zealand parrot.
The bird inhabits alpine areas, and is considered by scientists to be one of the most intelligent bird species in the world.

Maori mythology tells of the cheeky Kea bird, whom looked longingly upon the more brightly coloured of it’s parrot cousins – and wished for beautiful plumage instead of his lacklustre coloured attire. In the middle of the night, the Kea stole some of these brightly coloured feathers and secreted them under his wings before flying away.
This Maori legend explains the beautiful splash of ‘secret’ colour hiding away beneath the Kea’s drab exterior. It also highlights the mischievious and playful nature of the bird, which is often found in Alpine walking track carparks, dismantling and taking bright shiny pieces of cars left by unsuspecting walkers!

That Cheeky Kea! is a simple over-tee, written in 12 sizes and 2 yarn weights. The pattern sees you casting on at the neckline, working raglan increases, an off centre button placket, and sleeves finished while you work the chest.
The body is worked in the round until pocket openings are reached, and this area is worked flat. The body is completed, then you return to the pockets and work a contrast tube pocket in the round.
Like the Kea, this garment has a hidden splash of colour…..take the opportunity to use a bright and funky colourway for the pockets!