About

Since a small child, I have been exposed to Rongoa (traditional healing medicines) by my mother, Grandmother, Aunt’s and friends. Maori used karakia (prayer) in combination with numerous plants, trees and herbs to address a variety of ailments that they may have had. I have tried many of them and have always appreciated the natural alternative to healing one’s self, compared with westernized chemical medicines or theories.

A couple of years ago, I started making Kawakawa Balm. I tried various combinations, ratios, ingredients and methods until I created a balm that I thought was a good blend of my efforts and started to offer it to people who might benefit from it. Over time my recipes have continued to change and adapt to meet the needs of my customers. My product list has increased to include additional items such as Body Bars, Shampoo Bars and Tupakihi (Bone Healer). But overall, I believe Ora Body Essentials remains true to the core principles that Tongoa offers. To use natural ingredients produced by nature, to help soothe and heal the body and mind.