Nova Essence NZ

Introducing The World of Nova Essence ❤️

When I first started Nova Essence, I wanted to create a series exploring the stories behind the ingredients, traditions and rituals that inspire my work.

The journey begins with two places that have shaped who I am, Aotearoa New Zealand and China.

Aotearoa New Zealand – Kawakawa
Inspired by the native plants and landscapes that surround us, Kawakawa holds a special place in Māori tradition and reflects the connection between nature and wellbeing.

China – Red Date Tea
A reminder of family, heritage and the simple rituals shared over a warm drink.

Being both New Zealand and Chinese has shaped my understanding of beauty, a blend of nature, culture, tradition, family and everyday care.

Through The World of Nova Essence, I hope to share the stories, ingredients and rituals that connect us across cultures.

What recipe, ritual or tradition reminds you of where you come from?

Follow along as I explore more stories from The World of Nova Essence.
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Introducing Women of Nova Essence | Mandy

At Nova Essence, we believe beauty is not just about what we put on our skin, it is also about the stories, rituals, and connections that shape our everyday lives.

Today, we are introducing Women of Nova Essence, a series celebrating the inspiring women who have supported our journey, shared their stories, and become part of the Nova Essence community.

Our first story features Mandy from Tongariro Suites & Night Sky, a beautiful retreat she has created in the heart of Tongariro.

Follow their journey:


Mandy was one of Nova Essence’s very first customers, and we are incredibly grateful for the encouragement and trust she showed from the beginning.

As a solo mum of three and a property developer, Mandy is a wonderful example of strength, creativity, and resilience. Her warmth and generosity are reflected in everything she creates, from welcoming guests into her beautiful accommodation to supporting small local businesses like ours.

Thank you, Mandy, for being part of the Nova Essence story and for allowing me to share a little of your journey.

I hope you enjoy meeting the inspiring women behind Nova Essence.

Every product at Nova Essence begins with a story.

Our Joint + Muscle Balm was inspired by my mum, Alice, who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for many years. She also spent decades working with her hands, running a small takeaway alongside my dad until they closed in May 2022, in their early 70s. Years of long days and repetitive work led to tendinitis on top of chronic joint pain.

What stayed with me most was learning that she endured a year of sleepless nights due to pain, quietly, not wanting others to worry. Like so many mothers do.

This balm didn’t start as a product idea. It started as something I wanted to make for her. Carefully researched, handmade in small batches, and created with deep respect for hardworking hands.

It doesn’t cure RA or tendinitis, but it was made with care, intention, and love.

🛒 Available via Felt:
https://felt.co.nz/shop/novaessence

📷 Behind the scenes: .nz

As a child, I struggled with sinus issues far more than anyone else in my family. Sneezing, irritated skin, even nosebleeds, mornings often began in discomfort before the day had really started.

Over time, I learned my triggers: dust, certain fibres, dairy, sugar, even my vitamin C levels. But the usual options never felt quite right. Antihistamines left me foggy, and steroid nasal sprays only added to the dryness and sensitivity.

So I began looking for another way. Something gentle, natural, and kind to the delicate skin around the nose. That’s how this little balm came to be, first as a quiet remedy for me, and now a small but meaningful part of my brand. 🤍

A little moment of relief, wrapped in something beautiful. 🌸

This Sinus Relief Balm was created for days when breathing feels heavy, when allergies flare, or when dust and pollen make everything harder than it should be.

Made with gentle botanicals, it brings comfort you can carry anywhere.

Thank you for being here at the start of Nova Essence.

✨ Here’s to calmer moments, clearer breaths, and beauty in the simple things.

Hi, I’m Pippa — a fifth-generation NZ-born Chinese mum of two, and the hands behind Nova Essence.

This peony is one of my favourite flowers — my wedding flower, and a nod to my heritage. It inspires me to create gentle, clean beauty rituals that celebrate simplicity, intention, and care.

Nova Essence grew from my own sensitivities and the desire for natural solutions I could trust for myself and my family.

Thank you for being here and sharing in this little journey. 🤍