Discovering Manawa Honey: A Unique Māori Honey Project
Manawa Honey is more than just honey; it’s a vibrant expression of Māori culture and sustainable beekeeping nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Originating from Ruatāhuna, deep within Te Urewera’s untouched forests, this project is rooted in the traditions and values of the Tūhoe tribe. It’s about producing the finest native tree honeys while nurturing the land, supporting the community, and honoring the environment. Their range includes exquisite varieties like Mānuka, Kānuka, Tāwari, Rewarewa, and Pua-ā-Tāne Wild Forest Honey, each with a story and a unique flavour profile that reflects the purity of their homeland.
Main Benefits and Achievements of Manawa Honey
Manawa Honey stands out not just for its taste but for its remarkable accolades and sustainable approach. Here are some key highlights:
- World Champion Tāwari Honey – Winner of the Black Jar International Honey Tasting Contest, Creamed Category, 2025
- Platinum Award for Mānuka Honey MGO 400+ at the London Honey Awards
- Gold Awards for Mānuka MGO 100+ and 200+ at the same prestigious event
- Kānuka Honey crowned Best Creamed Honey at the World’s Best Tasting Honey Contest 2022 in Asheville, USA
- Free shipping on orders over $75 across New Zealand
- Strong commitment to sustainable land use and beekeeping practices
- Support for local Māori communities through job creation and cultural preservation
The Unique Flavours of Tāwari Honey
Tāwari Honey is a true gem in the Manawa collection. It’s light, silky smooth, and not overly sweet – perfect for those who appreciate subtle complexity. Imagine hints of butterscotch and a whisper of liquorice that linger just long enough to keep your taste buds intrigued. It’s versatile too: great with soft or full-bodied cheeses, drizzled over fresh fruits, or as a luscious topping for ice cream and pancakes. Culinary adventurers will find it a delightful addition to desserts, adding that special punch of flavour that’s hard to forget.
Rooted in Tikanga: The Values Behind Manawa Honey
At the core of Manawa Honey’s mission are values deeply embedded in Māori tikanga (customs). These guide every step of their process, from hive to jar:
- Sustainable Land Use: Protecting the forests and ecosystems that nurture the bees
- Our People of the Land: Empowering the local Tūhoe community with meaningful work
- Sustainable Beekeeping: Practices that respect the bees and their environment
- Our Forest Quintessence: Capturing the unique essence of native New Zealand flora
- Honey from the Heart: Crafting honey with care, passion, and cultural pride
Manawa Honey’s Connection to Te Urewera and Tūhoe
The honey’s story is inseparable from the land it comes from. Te Urewera, the homeland of the Tūhoe tribe, is one of the purest and most untouched places on earth. Manawa Honey’s operations support the Tuawhenua Forest Fund, a vital initiative that helps protect this precious environment. By sustaining the forests and the bees, the project ensures that future generations can enjoy the same natural bounty. This connection to place and people is what makes Manawa Honey truly special – it’s honey with a soul.
Project Impact: Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Creating jobs and supporting Māori communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Sustainable beekeeping and land use
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Protecting forests and biodiversity
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Conserving native forests and ecosystems
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborating with local trusts and communities
Exploring More About Manawa Honey
For those curious to dive deeper, Manawa Honey offers a wealth of stories and resources. Their website features detailed information about their honey varieties, the cultural kaupapa (purpose) behind their work, and the Tuawhenua Forest Fund. Plus, there’s a blog filled with news, recipes, and insights into the world of native New Zealand honeys. Whether you’re a honey lover, a supporter of Māori businesses, or someone passionate about sustainability, Manawa Honey invites you to explore and enjoy the purest tastes from the heart of Aotearoa.
