RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Biotenax designs, plans and facilitates research in a number of disciplines, wherever possible integrating western science with kaupapa Maori. Our extensive bio-discovery gardens include commercially viable working examples of Harakeke and other, selected native plants, supported by a range of processing, testing, analytical and laboratory equipment.
A ten part research plan supports the Harakeke Industry Alliance process to market and a Feasibility Analysis & Business Case is currently in development, in conjunction with Ngāti Ruapani ki Uta ki Tai Co-operative, and key Harakeke Alliance members.
Planting Model
Utilising Mātauranga Maori (knowledge), Tikanga Māori (practices) and the strengths of various Research, Science and Innovation institutes, we have developed a Riparian, Re-vegetation, Restoration and Transition Planting Model to enhance bio-diversity while making profitable use of marginal land.
This research will assist new entrants – from planting, activity development, investment opportunities and resourcing.
Our planting architecture is guided by unique Harakeke attributes:
- Harakeke thrives in ‘harvestable islands,’ and best when integrated with nearby native bio-diversity resulting in a healthy bird population which in turn suppresses invertebrate infestation.
- Grown from divisions from the chosen cultivar can result in an annual harvest of tupuna leaves 2-3 times per annum, for up to 25 years.
- Harakeke greatly increases the economic potential of marginal land; is very resilient to flooding; and does not require irrigation.
- Harakeke does not require insecticides, herbicides, fungicides or pesticides; or regular maintenance.
- Harakeke can transform flood challenged land.
Processing Technology
Our research and innovation in fibre & by-product processing, fibre solutions, harvesting techniques and finished yarn production technology is undertaken in collaboration with our alliance partners, tertiary and research institute partners.
Biotenax is a Developer and Co-developer of Harakeke Fibre Processing Technology with KiwiFibre Innovations Ltd.
Product Innovation
Beyond the development of proprietary fibre processing and by-product collection technology, and new yarns that may be incorporated into high performance industrial products.
Equipment is also being designed and built for Harakeke twine and rope products, not only for the enhancement of muka resource to our raranga weavers and Tohunga whakairo, but targeting for example, the replacement of synthetic rope in the marine industry.
It is reported by Oceancare that there are an estimated 5.25 trillion plastic particles floating on the ocean surface alone, which together weigh an estimated 269,000 tonnes. According to Oceancare, 20% of the microplastics in the oceans come from marine industry netting and rope.
CONSULTANCY & SUPPORT
Alongside our R&D programme, Biotenax provides consultancy services to Harakeke Alliance members and other new entrants who are looking to establish a supply of Harakeke raw material and/or to carry out primary processing of raw material.
Biotenax is also active in helping to coordinate participation in a new Harakeke Industry by Māori, land owners, government agencies and research institutes. See He Mahere Rautaki Harakeke | A Strategic Harakeke Plan, devised and proposed by Biotenax, referenced in support of Te Hononga Hapori Harakeke | The Harakeke Community Alliance, describing the potential for improved land use, increased resilience in remote communities, and helping to build a stronger New Zealand economy.
OVERVIEW
Biotenax capabilities include:
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Our planting architecture is guided by these primary principles:
- Harakeke propagation & plants
- Harakeke divisions
- Planting and Cultivation design, drone mapping & support services
- Fibre testing / Microscopy
- Harakeke Seed Oil technology
- By-product processing services and related R&D (Buchi Reactor, Rotovapor, Freeze Drying, Stability work).
- Harakeke Fibre & By-products (2026)
- Harakeke Rope Products (2027)
- Harakeke Yarn and twine (2027)
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QUALITY
- Industry Quality Assessment and Industry accreditation development.
- Industry Certification development (2027)
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PLANNING
- Strategic Planning for a New Industry
- Facilitating korero/discussion across diverse interest groups
- Harakeke Industry Research & Development (Phase I complete: Feasibility Analysis & Business Case for the re-establishment of the Harakeke Industry in Aotearoa New Zealand).
- Yarn and Rope Production Facility (2027)
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