START WITH THE FOREST
At tahi, we begin where all true healing starts — with the whenua [land]. Our skincare is crafted with native plants that thrive in the wild landscapes of Aotearoa. Each botanical carries its own unique wisdom, passed down through generations of the people of Aotearoa and grounded in the rhythms of nature. When combined, these plants do more than nourish the skin — restoring balance, calm, and connection to the land and yourself. With care and intention, we bring these gifts of the forest into every bottle.
KAWAKAWA [Piper excelsum]
Kawakawa is one of the most revered plants in Rongoā Māori — a plant of deep healing and protection, often referred to as the "pharmacy of the bush." It grows abundantly in the ngahere [forest] of Aotearoa, instantly recognisable by its heart-shaped, lush green leaves, often dotted with holes left by the looper caterpillar — a sign, it’s said, that the leaf is healthy and ready to be used.
In Māori tradition, kawakawa holds both physical and spiritual power. It has been used ceremonially to bless, protect, and cleanse, as well as practically, for treating wounds, inflammation, and skin irritations. Energetically, it is a balancing plant — warming, grounding, and gently detoxifying.
Found in our Oil Moisturiser.
Soothes inflammation and irritation
Ideal for calming eczema, insect bites, and rashes, kawakawa’s natural anti-inflammatory compounds bring swift relief to reactive skin.
Rich in myristicin and lignans
These bioactives support cellular repair, reduce redness, and improve overall skin tone.
Strengthens the skin barrier
Kawakawa helps reinforce the skin’s natural protective layer, making it more resilient to environmental stressors.
Supports healing of scars and blemishes
Traditionally used to dress wounds, kawakawa encourages skin regeneration and reduces visible signs of damage.
MĀNUKA [Leptospermum scoparium]
Mānuka, or New Zealand tea tree, is a small, hardy shrub covered in delicate white or pink blossoms. It thrives in wild, wind-swept areas, growing where little else can survive — a symbol of resilience and adaptability.
In Rongoā Māori, mānuka is known for its powerful cleansing and protective qualities. The steam from boiled leaves was used to ease skin discomfort, and its fragrant oils were prized for their antimicrobial effects. Mānuka carries an energetic sharpness — clearing, clarifying, and activating — excellent for when skin is dull, congested or out of balance.
Found in our Cleansing Oil and Toning Mist.
Antibacterial and purifying
Mānuka essential oil helps cleanse the skin and reduce breakouts without stripping the skin’s natural oils.
Anti-inflammatory and calming
Its gentle astringent properties soothe redness, irritation, and itchiness, especially in acne-prone or sensitised skin.
Rich in triketones
Unique to mānuka, these compounds combat harmful bacteria while supporting the skin’s natural microbiome.
Promotes skin clarity and resilience
Used over time, mānuka helps even the complexion and strengthens the skin against environmental stress.
HARAKEKE [Phormium tenax]
Also known as New Zealand flax, harakeke grows in fans of long, upright, sword-like green leaves with strong fibrous strands. Traditionally, each part of the harakeke plant had its role: leaves for weaving, gum for healing, and the roots for medicine. Its use reflects deep familial structure — the outer leaves never taken before the inner, symbolising protection of the young.
Energetically, harakeke is nourishing, protective, and deeply restorative. It brings moisture and softness, both physically and energetically — often used in healing balms, its mucilaginous gel-like sap is soothing to the touch.
Found in our Toning Mist and Oil Moisturiser.
Deep hydration
The gel from the leaves naturally attracts and holds moisture, plumping and softening dry or weather-worn skin.
Strengthens the skin barrier
Rich in omega-6 fatty acids, it supports the integrity of the skin’s outer layer, helping to lock in hydration and prevent irritation.
Soothes burns, inflammation, and itching
Harakeke’s cooling nature makes it ideal for calming hot, angry skin conditions and sun damage.
Encourages gentle skin renewal Its polysaccharides aid in cellular regeneration, making it especially supportive for mature or damaged skin.
KOROMIKO [Hebe stricta]
Koromiko is a native hebe shrub with slender green leaves and soft, pale purple or white flower spikes. Found across Aotearoa, especially in coastal and lowland areas, koromiko has long been used for its skin-soothing and toning abilities. Traditionally, it was applied topically for skin conditions and nappy rash, and held in high regard for its ability to gently draw impurities from the skin.
Koromiko carries an energetic clarity — cooling, calming, and gently astringent. It brings balance to oily or troubled skin and is known for helping the skin regain its natural rhythm.
Found in our Toning Mist and Oil Moisturiser.
Astringent and refining
Naturally high in tannins, koromiko tightens pores and helps remove excess oil without over-drying the skin.
Anti-inflammatory and skin-calming
Helps reduce redness and irritation, supporting a more even, clear complexion.
Promotes skin healing
Its toning properties make it useful for post-breakout recovery or areas prone to scarring.
Gentle enough for sensitive skin Historically used for babies and mothers, koromiko’s softness makes it ideal for delicate or easily irritated skin.
PROPOLIS EXTRACT [Resina propoli]
Propolis is a sticky, golden resin collected and transformed by bees from the sap of trees and native plants — including species unique to Aotearoa. It’s used within the hive to protect and repair — sealing cracks, defending against infection, and preserving harmony. Known as “bee glue,” this powerful substance reflects the wisdom of nature working in perfect rhythm.
In skincare, propolis is protective, reparative, and antimicrobial. Energetically, it brings cohesion and strength — helping skin hold together, heal, and flourish under pressure. When sustainably sourced in New Zealand, propolis is especially rich in antioxidant compounds thanks to the diversity of native flora.
Found in our Cleansing Oil.
Antibacterial and blemish-clearing
Propolis helps prevent breakouts and soothes existing flare-ups by calming bacterial overgrowth on the skin.
Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids
These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress and visibly reduce signs of ageing and skin fatigue.
Speeds up skin regeneration
Propolis encourages the production of collagen and supports natural wound healing, making it ideal for scars and dry patches.
Strengthens and protects the skin barrier Just as it protects the hive, propolis reinforces the skin’s natural defence layer — keeping hydration in and irritation out.
ROSE WATER [Rosa damascena hydrosol]
Distilled from the soft petals of the Rosa damascena flower, rose water is a time-honoured botanical used across many cultures for its balancing and beautifying properties. It carries the scent and vibration of calm — often associated with the heart and the breath — and is especially loved for its gentle action on sensitive skin.
Visually, rose water is clear and subtle, but energetically, it is cooling, soothing, and emotionally grounding. In tahi’s ritual, it acts as a bridge — refreshing and preparing the skin to absorb nourishment, while also inviting a moment of stillness and care.
Found in our Toning Mist.
Balances skin pH and tone
Its natural mildly acidic profile helps restore equilibrium, making it perfect for both dry and oily skin types.
Hydrating and anti-inflammatory
Rose water soothes sensitive, red, or overheated skin, reducing signs of stress and discomfort.
Gentle astringent
It refines pores and gives the skin a soft, smooth finish — without the dryness of alcohol-based toners.
Rich in antioxidants Rose petals contain polyphenols that help protect the skin from environmental damage and promote a radiant glow.
LAVENDER [Lavandula angustifolia]
Lavender is a beloved flowering herb recognised by its slender stems, silvery-green foliage, and soft purple blooms. Grown in the gentle sun and breeze, it emits a calming fragrance that has made it one of the most widely used botanicals in traditional medicine.
Lavender is known as a harmoniser — emotionally and physically. In skincare, it acts as a reset button for skin under pressure: clearing, soothing, and gently detoxifying. Its energy is peaceful and reassuring, helping skin find its way back to balance.
Found in our Toning Mist and Oil Moisturiser.
Calms inflammation and irritation
Lavender essential oil is ideal for soothing sun-exposed skin, redness, and minor rashes.
Cleanses and prevents blemishes
Its antimicrobial qualities help reduce bacteria that contribute to acne and breakouts.
Promotes wound healing
Lavender supports healthy skin cell turnover and has long been used to assist in healing cuts and scars.
Reduces stress-related skin reactivity Its gentle aroma and calming properties can help reduce flare-ups triggered by emotional or environmental stress.
TOTAROL [Podocarpus totara extract]
Totarol is a rare, powerful antioxidant extracted from the heartwood of the mighty tōtara tree — one of Aotearoa’s oldest and most sacred native trees. The tōtara can live for over a thousand years, its reddish-brown wood dense with protective oils that resist rot, bacteria, and fungal growth.
In traditional Māori knowledge, tōtara is a tree of strength and endurance. Its presence in the bush is a reminder of legacy, protection, and wisdom.
Found in our Oil Moisturiser.
Potent natural antioxidant
Totarol helps neutralise free radicals and protects the skin from oxidative stress, helping to slow the signs of ageing.
Antibacterial and acne-fighting
It reduces the bacteria that contribute to acne, making it effective for balancing troubled skin without irritation.
Gentle on sensitive skin
Despite its strength, totarol is soothing and non-stripping, supporting healthy flora on the skin.
Supports skin clarity and tone
With regular use, totarol helps refine texture, reduce blemishes, and promote a smooth, even complexion.