Materials & Sourcing
Every object in our store begins with a material choice. We choose materials that age well, repair easily, and come from sources we can stand behind. We prioritise natural, renewable, and recycled materials, work with small New Zealand makers and responsible international suppliers, and design products for everyday use, not display.
Shop the NZ CollectionOur Sourcing Philosophy
We choose materials that withstand daily use and improve with age. A well-made object should last for years, not seasons. We test materials for wear, moisture, and UV resistance, favour solid construction over veneers or laminates, and ask whether an item can be fixed locally before we stock it.
We know where our materials come from and who makes our products. We share that information openly, so you can buy with confidence. We visit suppliers and makers where possible, document material sources and production methods, and prioritise suppliers with fair labour practices.
We consider the full lifecycle of every product, from raw material to end of life. We prefer renewable, recycled, and recyclable materials, avoid materials that cannot be recycled or safely disposed of, use minimal packaging, and encourage repair and reuse over replacement.
Material Spotlight: Timber
We use solid New Zealand-grown timber, primarily radiata pine and macrocarpa, finished with natural oils and waxes. Timber brings warmth and character to everyday objects. Radiata pine is fast-growing, renewable, and widely available in New Zealand. Macrocarpa is naturally durable and resistant to rot, ideal for kitchen and bathroom items. We use non-toxic finishes that are safe for food contact.
Timber products are easy to maintain. A light sand and re-oil can restore the surface, and minor scratches add character rather than damage. Use a food-safe oil like tung or linseed oil, avoid soaking in water, and wipe clean with a damp cloth. Repair kits are available for deeper scratches.
Material Spotlight: Wool
Wool is a renewable, biodegradable fibre that is naturally insulating, moisture-wicking, and flame-resistant. We source wool from New Zealand farms and work with local mills to create durable textiles. Wool is shorn annually from sheep, a renewable resource. It regulates temperature, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. Wool is naturally odour-resistant and easy to care for.
Our wool products are made in small batches, often woven or knitted in New Zealand. We choose undyed or naturally dyed wool to minimise environmental impact. Undyed wool retains its natural colour variations, natural dyes from plants and minerals are used where colour is needed, and offcuts are recycled into felt or insulation.
Material Spotlight: Ceramic
Our ceramics are made by New Zealand potters using locally sourced clay and glazes. Each piece is unique, with slight variations that reflect the handmade process. Clay is sourced from New Zealand deposits, glazes are lead-free and food-safe, and pieces are fired at high temperatures for strength and durability.
Stoneware ceramics are chip-resistant and microwave and dishwasher safe. With care, they will last for decades. Stoneware is fired at over 1200°C, making it dense and strong. Avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking, and hand wash recommended to preserve glaze finish.
New Zealand Context
New Zealand homes face damp winters, strong sun, and coastal air. Our materials are chosen to perform in these conditions without constant maintenance. Wool regulates humidity and temperature naturally. Timber is treated for moisture resistance where needed. Ceramics are unaffected by UV and salt air.
Repair and Care
Most of our products can be repaired at home with basic tools and materials. We provide care instructions with every purchase and offer repair advice. Timber can be sanded and re-oiled to refresh the surface. Wool can be mended with a needle and thread. Ceramic can be repaired with food-safe epoxy for chips.
When a product finally reaches the end of its useful life, we encourage responsible disposal. Natural materials can often be composted or recycled. Timber can be composted or used as firewood. Wool is biodegradable and can be composted. Ceramic can be crushed and used as drainage material.
Our Makers
Small-batch cutting boards and kitchen shelves made from locally milled macrocarpa and radiata pine.
Woven throws and cushions using undyed New Zealand wool, finished with natural plant dyes.
Hand-thrown stoneware bowls and mugs fired in small kilns, with lead-free glazes and honest finishes.
See how these materials come together in our curated collection of homewares. Every product is chosen for its honesty, durability, and everyday usefulness.
Shop the NZ Collection