Our Story
Nutrakawa was born from a personal healing journey that transformed into a mission to share the remarkable benefits of New Zealand's native plants with the world.
In 2003, our founder Katerina Scott (née Tipene) received a life-changing diagnosis and was told she had just 18 months to live. Rather than accepting this prognosis, Katerina turned to the healing traditions she had learned throughout her life in Northland, reconnecting deeply with rongoā Māori—the traditional medicinal practices of Aotearoa New Zealand.
What began as a deeply personal quest for wellbeing gradually evolved into something greater. After experiencing profound benefits from her homemade kawakawa tonic, Katerina began sharing her formulations with others who were seeking natural wellness solutions. The remarkable results spoke for themselves, and the demand for her carefully crafted remedies grew organically.
Today, more than 20 years after her initial diagnosis, Katerina continues to harvest, prepare, and share the healing power of New Zealand's native plants through Nutrakawa, guided by the principles that have supported her own journey: Ask, Trust, Believe, Thanks.
Katerina Scott with her husband Gary Scott - Founders of Nutrakawa New Zealand Limited
Our Founder - Katerina Scott
Ko Motatau te maunga
Ko Taikirau te awa
Ko Ngatokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Motatau te marae
Ko Manu Koroki te whare tupuna
Ko Ngati Te Tarawa te hapu
Ko Nga Puhi te iwi
Ko Katerina Scott ahau
My Marae
Mōtatau marae is in the heart of Mōtatau, off State Highway One south of Kawakawa. The principal hapu is Ngāti Te Tarawa of the iwi of Ngāti Hine.
Mōtatau marae was built in the 1920s. The wharenui is named Manu Koroki and the wharekai is Mihiwira.
At Nutrakawa, we are guided by four fundamental principles:
ASK - Before harvesting any plant, we ask permission with respect and gratitude, acknowledging that we are receiving a gift from Papatuanuku (Earth Mother).
TRUST - We trust in the wisdom of traditional knowledge that has been refined over countless generations, while also embracing scientific understanding that validates these ancient practices.
BELIEVE - We believe in the remarkable healing potential of New Zealand's native plants and their ability to support wellbeing when harvested and prepared with proper respect and intention.
THANKS - We express gratitude at every step of our process—to the plants that offer their healing properties, to the knowledge keepers who have preserved these traditions, and to our customers who choose to incorporate these treasures into their wellness journeys.
Our Process
Every Nutrakawa product begins with mindful harvesting in the pristine forests of Northland, New Zealand. Katerina personally selects each leaf and plant part, following traditional protocols that honour the plants and ensure optimal potency.
Our production facility, built by Katerina's husband specifically for Nutrakawa, maintains the highest standards of purity. During processing, Katerina works in solitude to ensure the energetic integrity of each formulation remains undisturbed.
We adhere to strict Manufacturing Practices and have obtained all necessary certifications to guarantee that our products are not only effective but also safe and compliant with New Zealand's rigorous standards.
From forest to bottle, every Nutrakawa product embodies our unwavering commitment to quality, tradition, and respect for the healing wisdom of Aotearoa.
Our Commitment to Aotearoa
As guardians of traditional plant knowledge, we recognize our responsibility to protect and preserve New Zealand's unique botanical treasures for future generations.
Our harvesting practices follow sustainable principles that ensure plant populations remain abundant and healthy. We harvest only what we need, at the optimal times according to traditional knowledge, and with methods that encourage continued growth.
By sharing these remarkable plants with the world, we hope to foster greater appreciation for New Zealand's natural heritage and the profound wisdom of rongoā Māori that has sustained wellbeing in these islands for centuries.
When you choose Nutrakawa, you're not just selecting a natural wellness product—you're connecting to generations of wisdom, the healing power of Aotearoa's native plants, and a personal commitment to sharing their gifts with the world.
We invite you to experience the remarkable benefits of New Zealand's healing flora, carefully harvested and thoughtfully prepared to support your wellbeing journey.
Aroha nui (with great love),
Katerina and the Nutrakawa team
