Like you, we’re big on brands making a difference. Whether you’re passionate about locally sourced ingredients, discovering new brands for your everyday wellness, or making more ethical choices in your day, these 2022 Best of Natural Awards winners are loved for their conscious impact on people and planet.
From nourishing teas made using regenerative farming methods to menstrual cups packaged in a recyclable plastic pouch, here’s six brands leading the way mindfully in Aotearoa.
1. Best Transparent Brand: Absolute Essential
Love brands that are transparent about their supply chain? Committed to responsible sourcing, Absolute Essential took the spotlight as a winner in transparency for this years’ Best of Natural Awards – and for good reason. Sourcing their aromatherapy oils sustainably from artisan producers across the globe, their range is certified organic and perfect when you’re in need of some well-deserved R&R.
What the judges’ loved
- Pure, high quality grade essential oils
- Certified organic or wild-grown
- Sourced ethically from eco-friendly artisans
“I’m so impressed at their attention to detail when it comes to sourcing essential oils. This isn’t a company that just gets their ingredients from anywhere. Absolute Essential pay attention to respectful relationships and support communities and growers around the world in 59 countries.” - Sara Corleison
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2. Best Socially Responsible Brand: Chia Sisters
When it comes to putting people first, Chia Sisters do it well. From being an above Living Wage employer to being the highest scoring B Corp business across Aotearoa, Chia Sisters are a Socially Responsible Mindful Brand worth backing. Easily selected by the judges, you can be sure you’re making a positive difference with their delicious range of superfood tonics, here to nourish and satisfy.
What the judges’ loved
- Delicious & healthy range of drinks
- Accredited with Living Wage Aotearoa
- Solar powered, zero carbon juicery
“Chia Sisters are all about people. I loved reading all the ways in which they look to support their local community through a range of things from volunteer time to offering other brands their factory to use. They encourage leadership within their team by practicing it as a business. Amazing company, I’m so inspired.” - Rachel Grunwell
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3. Best Environmentally Sustainable Brand: Organic India
In the mood for a cuppa? Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or passionate about our planet, Organic India is sure to impress. Committed to a sustainable future, this Environmentally Sustainable Mindful Brand made a lasting impression on judges – thanks to their regenerative farming methods which give back to our earth, enrich biodiversity and sustainably regenerate soil. On a mission to create a healthier planet – and people too, their range of tulsi tea and herbal supplements are sourced organically to assure you’re getting the best of the best.
What the judges’ loved
- Farmers & wildcrafters practice biodynamic farming
- Free from synthetic chemicals & GMOs
- Certified organic range
“The commitment Organic India shows in going above and beyond ‘sustainable’ to be a regenerative business that improves the environment is an amazing mission. Their products are beautiful additions to modern lives that feel good to consume.” - Rachel Grunwell
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4. Best new brand: Tronque
Reinvent your clean beauty body ritual with Tronque – because skincare isn’t just for your face. Awarded ‘Best new brand’ by this years’ judges, Tronque’s plant-based skincare range is here to nourish and renew. From science-backed formulas made with native ingredients like Mamaku and Mānuka Leaf, to their send-back recycle scheme, this upcoming brand is making strong headway – and we’re here for it.
What the judges’ loved
- Send-back recycle scheme
- Locally sourced ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
“What luxurious products. Tronque is meeting such a gap in the natural skincare category offering active ingredients for the neck down. They are so great to use and the products are gorgeous to use! Look forward to seeing how Tronque continue to innovate their products and packaging.” - Liz McNamara
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5. Best brand using indigenous ingredients: Frankie Apothecary
Love local brands? When it comes to best use of indigenous ingredients, Frankie Apothecary tops the list. Sourcing their Kawakawa during full moons and observing traditional harvesting practices such as karakia (prayer), they work to ensure the plant is harvested at its peak. Inspired by Māori herbs shown to support everyday wellness, their range includes botanical oils and balms that soothe and nourish sensitive skin types.
What the judges’ loved
- Proudly made in Aotearoa
- Wild-crafted
- Gentle formulas for all skin types
"Frankie products lead the way in supporting sensitive and irritated skin. The brands respectful relationship with their use of NZ native ingredients is inspiring.” - Sara Corleison
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