Together, we are better

Together, we are better. In times of economic uncertainty, it’s tempting to batten down the hatches, tighten the purse strings, and go it alone. But here at Be Natural, we believe the opposite is true: now more than ever, small businesses must pull together, collaborate, and support one another to not only survive—but thrive.

We’re proud to be a small, family-run business based in Taranaki, creating beautiful castile soap using simple, safe ingredients and traditional techniques. Our roots are here, in the heart of Aotearoa, where local communities, resilient whānau, and clever innovation are what keep us going.

Across New Zealand, small businesses are feeling the squeeze. Costs are rising, supply chains are tighter, and consumers are more conscious than ever about where their money goes. In Taranaki, where the backbone of our economy is built on hardworking families, growers, makers, and tradespeople, the pressure is real.

But pressure can also create diamonds.

We’re seeing a groundswell of energy—small businesses choosing collaboration over competition, partnerships forming, and local people making deliberate choices to shop small, shop local, and lift each other up.

A beautiful example of this philosophy in action is our relationship with Green Goddess. Rather than viewing each other as competitors in the natural products space, we’ve embraced the idea that there’s room for all of us when we stay true to our values and work together.

Green Goddess is a New Zealand brand that, like us, believes in transparency, sustainability, and making products that are good for people and the planet. Our businesses complement each other. We share knowledge, recommend each other, and celebrate each other’s wins. That sense of cohesion and mutual respect lifts both of us—and our customers benefit too.

When you buy from Be Natural or Green Goddess, you’re supporting businesses that don’t just talk about community—we live it. Every purchase helps pay local wages, support regional suppliers, and keep authentic, values-led products available in the New Zealand market.

At Be Natural, our story is one of connection and care. We handcraft our soap. We know our customers by name.

We’ve grown this business alongside our whānau, and we know that many of you have too—whether you’re running a side hustle, growing a market stall, or managing a small team, you’re part of the same ecosystem.

When you support small, you support real people. You support resilience, diversity, and a low-waste, low-carbon way of doing business. You support a circular economy that benefits Taranaki and beyond.

Want to uplift your local economy and be part of a stronger Aotearoa? Here’s how:

• Choose local first: Whether it’s soap, sourdough, seedlings, or sewing—check your local options before you click on big-box sites.
• Collaborate, don’t compete: If you’re a small business owner, reach out to others in your space. Share advice, swap ideas, promote each other. There’s plenty of pie for all of us.
• Tell your friends: Word of mouth is gold for small businesses. Leave reviews, share on socials, and talk us up at the dinner table!
• Shop with intention: Buy less, buy better, and support those who align with your values.

Together, we are better, and it feels good too.

We’re proud to be part of a growing movement of Kiwi businesses that put people and planet first. Times are tough, but we are tougher when we stand together. Thank you for being part of our journey—and for supporting a more connected, compassionate, and resilient Aotearoa.

With gratitude,
Sarah and Susan, Be Natural.