February 2026 Nāti Growth

Ngati Porou Native Nursery Update

12,000 Natives Ready for Winter Planting

Rob has been busy behind the scenes getting everything ready for winter planting at Sponge Bay. He’s in the final stages of preparation — taking cuttings, pruning and trimming, weeding, and making sure the site is all set for planting to kick off in May.

The plan this winter is a big one: 12,000 stems will go in the ground, all propagated at our Ruatoria nursery. It’s awesome to see plants we’ve grown ourselves heading back out into the whenua.

Rob has also been out eco-sourcing seed from along the coast for later plantings this year. He’s gathered a great range of natives including mānuka, kānuka, harakeke, toetoe, rewarewa, kōwhai, and karamū — just to name a few. Once collected, the seed is carefully cleaned and processed for storage so we have plenty on hand to meet supply.

And as if that wasn’t enough, while he’s been out and about collecting seed, Rob has also managed to collect and transplant some native wildings too — making the most of every trip.

Ngati Porou Mānuka Update

Making It Happen: Delivering Against the Odds

Honey harvest day on the East Coast is always something special. This week, we removed the supers using escape boards — a slower, gentler method that allows the bees to move down naturally, reducing stress on the hive and supporting their ongoing health. It’s an approach that reflects our commitment to working with the bees, not against them, while preparing the honey for the next stage.

Harvesting in Wharekahika brings a rhythm shaped by the land itself. Remote, quiet, and unhurried, it allows the work to be done with intention. Fresh air, steady hands, and time create space for careful decision-making and respect for the environment we operate in.

Each harvest is guided by a long-term view — protecting the land, supporting strong hives, and honouring the mahi involved. It’s about sustainability, patience, and ensuring this place and this practice can continue for generations to come with the land, the bees and the mahi involved.

Te Ihi Shines at Gulfood

Te Ihi proudly stood among over 8,500 exhibitors at Gulfood 2026, the world’s largest food and beverage trade show — and what a week it was!

Our team showcased Te Ihi’s Mānuka honey and wellness portfolios to a truly global audience, generating strong interest, meaningful conversations, and exciting new opportunities. We gained positive traction with major retail and pharmacy groups, secured trial orders, and built valuable partnerships across the Middle East and further afield

The response to our wellness range — at a food-focused show — was particularly encouraging, reinforcing our growth potential and innovation strength. Visitors also praised Te Ihi’s distinctive New Zealand story and standout design, setting us apart on the global stage.

We are excited to build on this momentum and take the next steps in expanding Te Ihi’s global footprint – watch this space.

Nāti Horse Sports

Despite the wet weather, there was a great turnout for the Fundraiser Nāti Horse Sports in Ruatoria. We were proud to be sponsors of the event, with all proceeds going toward Matakaoa Flood Recovery.

Rore, our Makarika Farm Manager, did a fantastic job as MC for the day. Contestants of all ages travelled from across the region, and it was awesome to see the support and skills on display from such a diverse range of riders.

We had a Nāti Growth stand on the day, meeting and greeting contestants and supporters and handing out giveaways. All the giveaways disappeared and it was great to see our giveaway mugs already in action — filled with hot chocolate and perfect for a bit of biscuit dunking in the wet weather.

Ngati Porou Wear

Last month we gave away a Ngati Porou Tank to our lucky winner, Kwick Andzue!

Make sure you’re following our socials to stay up to date with new releases and competitions or shop online at www.ngatiporouwear.com.