Aotea (15)

 A range of New Zealand made health products inspired by traditional Māori herbal remedies and supported by scientific research. 

Aotea was founded in 2017 – inspired by mātauranga māori (māori knowledge) and this knowledge manifests itself in their range of therapeutic skincare. Aotea is the māori name for Great Barrier Island and it is here where they are from and where they grow the native flora they use (and extract their oils) and spin these into the products in their range. This is all done by their team on their papakāinga (land). 

What is important is what they do brings opportunity to the community where they are based on Aotea. In light of which they have decided (despite the difficulty) to grow, extract and manufacture all the products rather than outsource this. Aotea is proud to say that for every year they have been in business they have provided scholarships to their rangatahi māori to attend high school and they are in the process of creating more jobs for whānau.

What is also important to Aotea is spearheading the science that will give credibility to the anecdotal history and knowledge māori have for the healing flora of Aotearoa. They now have a committed R&D team to determine innovative ways to not only extract some of the plant agents in the flora they use but also undertake clinical tests of these plant agents.

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Biodegradeable

These goods can be composted at the end of their useful life, leaving no trace of their existence.

Ethically Made

These goods are made by suppliers that pay fair wages, guarantee no child labour, and maintain a safe working environment.

Handmade

Handcrafted goods are one of a kind that have been created by skilled artisans often using techniques passed down through generations, rather than by automated, machine-based processes. Small irregularities are celebrated and are what make handcrafted goods unique.

Local

These goods are manufactured in the same country in which they are designed. This sustains the local economy and is more equitable for the workers and their communities. 

Natural

These goods have been crafted with materials that are derived from naturally occurring materials, plants or animals, with minimal processing. 

Organic

Goods that are made from organically grown materials and are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. 

Recycled

In an effort to reduce waste, the design of these goods are either part or wholly made from up-cycled or previously used materials. These can be either salvaged directly in their current form or from recycled materials, such as paper, glass or metal.

Sustainable

Goods made from materials that can be replenished at the rate they are consumed, all with minimal environmental and social impact. Such as FSC wood, bamboo and wool. 

Transparent

These goods are produced by artisans or companies that are open, honest, and straightforward about their business operations. Transparency builds trust, from makers through to customers.

Vegan

These are goods that contain absolutely no animal products or by-products and were not tested on animals at any stage.