At Hark & Zander, sustainability isn’t just a value we talk about - it’s at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re honoured to be recognised as a 2025 Auckland Central Finalist in the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards for Excellence in Sustainability. These awards celebrate local businesses making a positive impact, and this recognition reflects the meaningful change we work hard to create every day.
Join us as we highlight the choices driving our commitment to sustainability - from mindful ingredient sourcing to eco-friendly packaging and responsible business practices.
For us, it's all about making choices that care for your skin while protecting the planet. When you choose Hark & Zander, you're not only caring for your skin, but also supporting a future where beauty and sustainability go hand in hand.
Mindful Sourcing
Every ingredient we use is carefully chosen for its effectiveness, safety, and environmental impact.
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Kōakaheart Oil: Organically grown in New Zealand, kōaka conditions the soil, absorbs carbon, and requires just 1/20th the water of cotton. Each plant removes up to four times more CO₂ from the air than pine trees, making it one of nature’s most powerful climate allies.
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Native botanicals: We showcase the richness of New Zealand with ingredients like Kawakawa, Mamaku Black Fern, Manuka, Te Puke Kiwifruit, Marlborough Grapeseed Oil and Red Seaweed.
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Locally sourced, proudly NZ made: As a 100% New Zealand-owned company, we display the FernMark with pride, sharing the best of Aotearoa’s botanicals with the world.
When you choose our products, you’re supporting local growers, organic practices, and a more sustainable supply chain.
Planet-Friendly Packaging
We believe beautiful packaging should never come at the expense of the planet. That’s why we’ve put a lot of thought into every step:
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Product packaging: We use recyclable PEFC-certified cardboard and glass, bio-degradable labels made from natural fibres and eco-friendly printing methods wherever possible.
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Dispatch & retail boxes: Our recyclable brown shipping boxes and packing paper cut unnecessary waste.
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Courier bags: Every courier bag we use is home compostable. No unnecessary plastic layers, no excess wrapping - just packaging that protects your products and the planet.
The result? A premium skincare experience that feels indulgent without leaving a heavy footprint.
Commitment to Change
For us, sustainability is a continuous journey. We constantly review what’s essential to protect our products and reduce everything else. This ongoing commitment ensures we’re making mindful choices not just for today, but for the generations to come.
Reducing Our Carbon Footprint
We know true sustainability means going further than packaging. That’s why we:
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Plant for the future: Partnering with Marlborough vineyards, we contribute to planting 4.8 million kōaka plants annually, regenerating soil and capturing carbon.
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Choose low-impact practices: From downsizing our offices to embracing remote work, we’re finding smarter ways to reduce emissions.
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Aim higher: We’re actively working towards B Corp Certification, holding ourselves accountable to the highest global standards of sustainability.
What does working towards B Corp Certification mean?
One of the most significant steps we’re taking is our journey towards B Corp skincare brand certification. This globally recognised standard is awarded to businesses that meet the highest levels of verified social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
What does it take to become a B Corp?
Becoming a Certified B Corporation involves a rigorous assessment that examines the entire business model. It looks at:
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Supply chains and ingredient sourcing – ensuring ethical practices and minimal environmental impact.
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Environmental footprint – measuring carbon emissions, waste reduction, and energy use.
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Community impact – supporting local economies and fostering fair workplace practices.
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Governance and accountability – building a business that values people and the planet as much as profit.
The B Corp certification process requires brands to score highly across these categories, proving that they are not only talking about sustainability but actively delivering on it.
Why is this important for skincare?
Skincare should be transparent, ethical, and effective. By working towards B Corp certification, we’re holding ourselves accountable to these standards. It means you can trust that Hark & Zander isn’t just formulating clean beauty NZ products for beautiful skin - we’re also contributing positively to the world around us.
Looking Ahead
Being a finalist for Excellence in Sustainability reinforces that the choices we make matter - not just for us, but for our customers, our community, and our environment.
We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but this is only the beginning. Together with our customers, we’re redefining beauty as a force for good.
When you choose Hark & Zander, you’re choosing more than skincare. You’re choosing a movement towards mindful, responsible beauty that looks after your skin and the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sustainable Skincare
1. What is B Corp Certification and why is it important?
B Corp Certification is a global standard that measures a company’s impact on people and the planet. It proves that a B Corp skincare brand is walking the talk when it comes to sustainability.
2. Are Hark & Zander products vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes—all of our formulations are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
3. How does sustainable skincare benefit the planet?
Eco-friendly skincare reduces environmental harm by minimising waste, avoiding toxic ingredients, and supporting ethical supply chains.
4. Why is packaging such an important part of sustainability?
Packaging makes up a large portion of beauty industry waste. By choosing natural skincare with recyclable packaging, we drastically reduce environmental impact.
5. How can I support sustainable skincare at home?
Choose natural-based, eco-conscious products, recycle packaging properly, and adopt a “less is more” approach to your routine.
Sustainability isn’t just part of our brand. It’s who we are. Explore our collection and join us in creating a future where skincare is truly a force for good.
