Native plant skincare project launched

A multimillion-dollar project has been launched to create a new range of skincare products using native New Zealand plant compounds.

The Foundation for Research, Science and Technology (FRST) is investing $1.7 million into the project, with skincare company Living Nature matching the investment dollar for dollar.

Living Nature was founded in Kerikeri by Suzanne Hall, who started her career as a chemist.

The project involves identifying, extracting and purifying native plant compounds for skincare use.

Six different scientific organisations are involved, including scientists from various crown research institutes in New Zealand as well as scientists in Italy.

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise is contributing to the development and commercialisation of Living Nature as a global brand.

Harvesting and manufacturing processes will be investigated to ensure commercial quantities of new ingredients are readily available on a sustainable basis.