Harnessing the power of
New Zealand native trees
In a world of consumerism, fast-paced living & mass production, our goal is to offer you something real.
We use high concentrations of native extracts in our formulations - each chosen for their special combination of soothing & healing properties.
Meet a few of our favourite NZ native trees and plants:
Harakeke
Harakeke (flax) is endemic to New Zealand. It’s commonly found alongside rivers and has long, upright leaves which can reach up to 4 metres in length.
Harakeke represents family in Maori mythology, and is an integral part of the Real World ethos in creating safe, plant-based products that are suitable for everyone. Harakeke naturally hydrates, cools, reduces puffiness and soothes irritation, while its mild astringency helps to control oil overproduction.
Hoheria
Hoheria shrubs grow across the North Island of New Zealand, bearing large quantities of fragrant white flowers. This beautiful native plant has many medicinal properties, and is often referred to as a ‘herbal antacid’ for its ability to ease inflammatory conditions.
Hoheria was also used traditionally to soften and hydrate skin. We’ve experimented extensively with this plant over the years and love the soothing qualities it brings to our formulations (particularly the ‘Repair’ range).
Kowhai
Kowhai - meaning ‘yellow’ - is a native New Zealand plant with bright yellow flowers. It’s as powerful as it is pretty: Kowhai has high antioxidant and antibacterial properties, and different parts of the tree have been used for many years to treat a variety of skin issues.
We use high concentrations of Kowhai bark in our formulations and love this versatile botanical for its cleansing, moisturising and soothing benefits.
Manuka
The white & pink flowers on the Manuka tree bloom just 2-6 weeks per year. Manuka Honey is made by bees that pollinate these flowers and can only be produced in areas that are abundant with native Manuka blossoms, which is why many hives are located in remote areas across New Zealand.
Naturally rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, Manuka has beautiful cleansing, soothing and healing abilities. It’s also a natural humectant - meaning it helps retain the skin’s natural moisture. We use both the honey & hydrosol (a natural by-product from the steam distillation of Manuka Essential Oil) in our formulations.
Pohutukawa
Pohutukawa trees are abundant in many coastal areas - you’ll often find a swing attached to low-hanging branches overlooking a sparkling ocean.
Pohutukawa was used topically in traditional Maori herbal medicine for wounds and abrasions, as the bark contains a special acid known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It now plays a key role in many of our formulations for its ability to soothe dry, red, irritated skin.
Koromiko
Koromiko is a bushy native shrub found throughout the South Island and Stewart Island. It’s often described as ‘willow-like’ due to its drooping aesthetic.
From soothing nappy rash to relieving stomach aches, Koromiko is used for a number of medicinal purposes. With astringent leaves that are naturally high in tannins, we love Koromiko’s ability to remove excess oil from pores and naturally tone skin - all without the need for harsh chemicals.
Kawakawa
Kawakawa is an abundant native tree found across New Zealand. Its heart-shaped leaves are very distinctive, and were traditionally boiled into a tea designed to soothe the digestive system.
We love this native extract for its beautiful skin-nourishing benefits and ability to restore hydration. It has powerful natural anti-inflammatory properties too, making it an effective treatment of cuts, wounds and rashes.
Mamaku
Mamaku is the tallest tree fern in New Zealand, reaching up to 20 metres in height! It’s found in abundance in damp forested areas across the North Island and along the top of the South Island.
Mamaku is widely recognised for its anti-ageing and healing properties. This incredible tree prevents both native forests and skin from losing moisture, so it’s a great support for those with dry skin.
