Tōtara is one of Aotearoa’s most iconic native timbers, and today it is also being recognised as one of the most sustainable building and furniture materials available.

Through the Tōtara Industry Pilot (TIP) in Northland, Māori landowners, government agencies, and businesses are working together to re-establish tōtara as a managed, renewable industry. This approach provides new income streams for whānau and hapū, supports biodiversity through careful forest management, and ensures the timber is used responsibly.

At Innate Furniture, we are proud to use tōtara in our furniture collections — from dining tables to outdoor settings. Tōtara is naturally durable, lightweight, and perfect for exterior use. Unlike imported hardwoods such as kwila, which come with ethical and environmental concerns, tōtara is grown, milled, and processed entirely in Aotearoa.

Our commitment goes beyond simply using the timber. We actively support sawmills, landowners, and fabricators involved in tōtara processing, ensuring value stays in New Zealand. Every purchase helps strengthen this growing industry and demonstrates how local resources can replace unsustainable imports.

Tōtara also contributes to healthier homes. Combined with natural oils and solid construction, tōtara furniture is toxin-free, repairable, and built to last generations. This longevity is another dimension of sustainability — keeping furniture out of landfill and reducing demand for new materials.

So, why is tōtara a sustainable timber choice? Because it connects cultural, environmental, and economic outcomes: honouring te taiao (the natural world), supporting Māori-led initiatives, and creating beautiful, enduring products for New Zealand homes.