Our Promise & About Us
The creation of Rata & Smudge
My deep-rooted passion for nature serves as the driving force behind the inception of Rata & Smudge. Since my earliest memories, the wonder of the natural world, particularly plants, has captivated me. From the enchanting Hydrangeas that graced my grandmother's front door to the present, where I love to walk barefoot in my garden, feeling a connection to the earth, my love for nature has evolved into a profound journey.
This evolution encompasses tending to my own vegetable and herb gardens, foraging for wild edibles and healing plants, and crafting natural products. Nestled in the heart of Central Otago on a Sheep and Beef Station, high up in the hills with crisp, clean air, I find myself celebrating the beauty and magic of nature in every facet of my life.
At Rata & Smudge, this love for nature is not just a sentiment; it's the essence that infuses each product with a touch of the extraordinary. Join us on this journey, where the magic of nature meets the artistry of well-being.
The Ritual
At Rata & Smudge, we take pride in crafting our products with most ingredients sourced directly from our farm and garden or locally grown including our beeswax. Every plant is carefully selected for its unique medicinal properties, ensuring that each product not only enhances ritual practices but also promotes healing. We believe in harnessing the power of nature, blending both the physical and metaphysical aspects of these plants to create holistic solutions for our customers.
Our journey
Welcome to Rata & Smudge, where the journey to well-being is woven into the fabric of our existence. At the heart of our story lies a deep belief that everyone has the right to feel good. Guided by this principle, I've dedicated myself to curating a herbal apothecary that goes beyond products – it's a sanctuary for your wellness journey.
In a world that often pulls us in different directions, I've always cared deeply about each individual's path to well-being. Rata & Smudge is more than an apothecary; it's a haven where the healing properties of nature meet thoughtful curation, ensuring that everyone, without exception, can embark on a journey to feel their very best.
Join us in embracing the right to feel good, and let Rata & Smudge be a companion on your wellness journey.
My Promise to you 
I grow or sustainably forage nearly every plant that we work with. Weaving them into items to support your wellbeing and self-care practices and encourage a deeper connection with nature.
Homegrown
Rest assured, when it comes to sourcing White Sage, Mullein, Yarrow, and other plants often of concern for ethical harvesting, I've taken a hands-on approach. Each of these plants is personally grown by us, ensuring your peace of mind. They flourish in a pesticide-free environment amidst the pristine air of the high hills in Central Otago.
Our commitment to transparency extends to our Saffron, sourced from the esteemed Wynyard Saffron Estate in Ettrick, tended to by Graham & Wendy. Their dedication guarantees the highest quality saffron. Additionally, our Kawakawa is sourced directly from our sons in the north, allowing us to trace its origin and handpick it when we visit our family there.
At Rata & Smudge, we not only cultivate products but also cultivate trust, ensuring that every element of our creations aligns with the values of purity, transparency, and ethical practices.