Hark & Zander was born from both curiosity and frustration. Like so many with sensitive skin, Kirsty—a nurse by trade—struggled to find products that didn’t irritate her skin. Even the so-called “best” on the market were packed with synthetics, leaving her questioning what she was really absorbing. As a healthcare professional, she knew the skin is the body’s largest organ. Could there be a better way?
Her search for a natural, effective solution led her to kōaka, a remarkable botanical known for its deeply nourishing properties. This discovery led to Sativelle3™—a breakthrough triple skin shield oil exclusively developed by Hark & Zander. Sativelle3™ is a proprietary botanical oil, extracted through a carefully controlled process designed to preserve its purity, potency, and skin-loving benefits. Unlike conventional methods, this technique ensures a superior oil rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, delivering deep hydration, strengthening the skin barrier, and restoring balance.
But Kirsty didn’t stop at skincare. She became New Zealand’s first licensed kōaka grower in vineyards, exploring its potential beyond beauty. Despite government hurdles, she secured co-funding for groundbreaking research into how kōaka can enhance vineyard ecosystems—improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, and potentially influencing the vines themselves.
The real breakthrough, however, came with Sativelle3™—the result of years of research and development. This exclusive ingredient is the foundation of Hark & Zander’s skincare innovations, carefully blended with other botanicals to create high-performance formulations that improve texture, boost radiance, and nourish skin at a deeper level. It’s a reflection of Hark & Zander’s commitment to ‘green science’—blending nature with innovation to create powerful, results-driven skincare.
As Kirsty experimented with her Sativelle3™-infused Face Oil, the results spoke for themselves. Friends and family noticed the glow. Word spread. Orders poured in. What began as a passion project soon grew into a premium skincare brand.
Hark & Zander has since won over 25 international awards, cementing its place as a leader in natural, high-performance skincare.
Hark & Zander—“Hark” for sharing good news, “Zander” for protection, inspired by its roots in ‘Alexander,’ meaning ‘defender of the people.’
It all began in an Auckland lab, formulating with pure, New Zealand-growningredients. With a growing team, national recognition, and a loyal customer base, the brand has expanded beyond New Zealand—sharing the best of Aotearoa with the world.
Today, this small Kiwi start-up is making a big impact, offering skincare that empowers, nourishes, and delivers science-backed results with the natural power of Sativelle3™.
We’re so proud of how far we’ve come—and we can’t wait to share what’s next.
“My skin has never looked better.”