Welcome to our little corner of the internet! We get a lot of questions about how we do things here at Real World, so I've put together this list to help. If you can't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out.
About Us / Our Story
Who is behind Real World?
Hello! I'm Nicola. I started Real World with my husband Adam after my own hands became a cracked, sore mess from years of raising four kids and using harsh supermarket dish liquids. We couldn't find a solution that worked, so we made our own. We now handcraft our products right here in our Hastings factory in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.
Where are your products made?
Every single product is made by us, from scratch, in our Hastings factory in Hawke's Bay. We control the entire process from start to finish—something that's incredibly important to us to ensure the highest quality.
Why did you start Real World?
It really started out of necessity. My hands were red, dry, and painful, making simple chores a struggle. I realised the harsh chemicals in everyday products were the culprit. I wanted something real, plant-based, and genuinely restorative. When our first hand care products worked so well for me, we knew we had to share them.
Ingredients & Formulations
Are your products plant-based?
Absolutely. We use only the most necessary and nourishing plant-based ingredients. You won't find any harsh chemicals here—just honest formulations that are better for you, your family, and the planet.
Do you test on animals?
Never. We love animals, and our products are strictly cruelty-free.
Are your products vegan?
Yes, our formulations are vegan-friendly. We harness the power of plants, not animal by-products.
What makes your ingredients special?
We use high concentrations of New Zealand native extracts—like Harakeke, Hoheria, Kowhai, Manuka, and Kawakawa. Each is chosen for its special combination of soothing, cleansing, and healing properties. For example, our Kowhai extract has brilliant antioxidant and antibacterial properties, while Hoheria is amazing for easing inflammatory conditions.
How exactly do I use the Toilet Drops?
This is a great question! Our golden rule is: Flush. Drop. Done. You just need to put a few drops in the bowl *after* you flush. Never before! It leaves the bathroom smelling incredibly fresh and clean for the next person.
Can I use your body wash as a hand wash?
You certainly can. All our washes are formulated to be gentle and restorative. However, our hand washes are specifically designed to tackle the daily grime hands face while adding moisture back in, so we do recommend having a dedicated hand wash by the sink!
What is the Repair Balm used for?
Our Repair Balm is a true multi-tasker. It's brilliant for dry, cracked skin, scrapes, burns, and itchy patches. It's a travel essential and a lifesaver for hard-working hands.
Where do you ship?
We ship right across New Zealand, and we also ship to our friends over in Australia!
How long does dispatch take?
We know you want your Real World goodies as soon as possible! We typically dispatch orders within 1-2 business days from our Hastings factory.
Do you offer free shipping?
We do! Please check your cart or the banner at the top of our website for our current free shipping threshold.
Orders & Returns
Can I track my order?
Yes, once your order leaves our factory, you'll receive a tracking link via email so you can follow its journey to your doorstep.
What if there's an issue with my order?
We are real people making real products, and while we try our absolute best, sometimes things go wrong. If your order arrives damaged or isn't quite right, please email me directly at nicola@realworldnz.com and we will sort it out for you immediately.
Sustainability & Packaging
Do you offer refills?
We absolutely do. We encourage you to enjoy our products daily and refill as needed. We offer refill options for many of our products, including hand washes, body washes, dishwashing liquids, and bench sprays. It's a great way to reduce waste and keep your beautiful glass bottles in use.
Is your packaging sustainable?
We make considered packaging choices. We want our products to look beautiful in your home while being kind to the earth. Offering refills is a big part of our commitment to reducing single-use plastics.
Bundles & Gifting
What is the Build Your Own Bundle (BYOB)?
We love giving you choices! Our BYOB is a:
$100 bundle (3 items under $50) or our $150 bundle (5 items under $50) or
$200 bundle (7 itens under $50)
where you get to play curator and choose exactly which products you want. It's a fantastic way to try a few different things or stock up on your absolute favourites.
Do you do corporate gifting?
We certainly do. Our products make beautiful, purposeful gifts. If you need help putting together corporate gifts, please get in touch with us via the Contact Us page and we'd be thrilled to help.
Can I buy a pre-made gift bundle?
Yes! We have several beautifully curated bundles, including 'The Founder Bundle' which features my absolute favourite everyday essentials.
Wholesale & Stockists
I'd love to stock Real World in my store. How do I do that?
We love partnering with beautiful stores that share our values! Please email me directly at nicola@realworldnz.com and we can chat about wholesale opportunities.
Where can I find Real World products in person?
We would love to see you in our Hastings Store! We also have a wonderful family of stockists. You can find a list of them on our website under 'Find a Stockist'.
Sensitive Skin & Allergies
Are your products safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, they are formulated with sensitive skin in mind—after all, Real World was born because of my own severe skin irritation! We use gentle, plant-based ingredients and native extracts like Pohutukawa and Hoheria which are traditionally known to soothe dry, red, and irritated skin.
I have a specific allergy, can I use your products?
While our products are plant-based and gentle, everyone's skin is different. We list all our ingredients clearly on our website and packaging. If you have a known allergy, please check the ingredient list carefully, and we always recommend doing a small patch test first if you are unsure.
If you have any other questions, please reach out. We are always happy to chat!
Nicola & Adam x
