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Harvesting Kawakawa - Respecting Tikanga and Te Ao Maori
At KOA, we live in deep connection with Papatūānuku. Every leaf of Kawakawa we harvest carries a story — one of healing, reverence and aroha. For centuries, Māori have embraced this remarkable rakau as Rongoā (medicine), and we are privileged to continue this tradition with care and gratitude.
Guided by Nature, Grounded in Respect
Ma ngā manu e ārahi — guided by the birds.
When morning light filters through the canopy, we begin our hikoi — a mindful walk into the ngahere. Before entering, we pause, switch off all devices, and set a clear intention. The city noise fades, replaced by the chorus of manu guiding us to the rakau ready to gift its healing.
We begin each harvest with karakia, offering thanks to Tāne Mahuta and the atua of the forest. We take only a few leaves from each tree — always from the east-facing side, where the morning sun has encouraged the sap to rise and the potency to flourish.
The leaves chosen are often those enjoyed first by ngā anuhe (caterpillars). These perfectly imperfect leaves are our first pick — a signal from nature herself of where the strongest healing lives.
The leaves return home with us, ready to be transformed, with care and intention — into the healing botanical blends you know and love.
Key Protocols for Kawakawa Harvesting
A Ritual, Not a Routine
Harvesting Kawakawa at KOA is never done out of habit. It’s a practice of respect and reconnection — with the land, with Wairua, with self.
We walk to clear our energy, to leave behind any heaviness that might interfere with the process. The ngahere deserves our full presence. Distractions like music or devices are left behind — this is sacred space.
We harvest in the morning when the plant is vibrant and full of life, and always give thanks when we leave. This is the rhythm of KOA — rooted in tikanga, carried out with aroha.
From Forest to You — With Love and Intention
Every product from KOA begins with connection — to the forest, to ancestral knowledge, and to our customers.
We honour the traditions that came before us and walk gently with the land as we craft natural healing remedies from the forest and sea. When you choose KOA, you’re not only supporting your body — you’re reconnecting with the natural rhythms that restore us all.
Rediscover joy. Bring KOA home.
KOA Botanics is a New Zealand Organic Skincare brand, based in Rotorua and shipping nationwide. With organic Kawakawa and Magnesium healing balms, creams, oils and bath soaks, our products provide relief and moments of calm to skin ailments and achy muscles.
Browse our Kawakawa range of products and bring natures magic home!