The Journey So Far

It all began when Mathew and Werner joined forces with local Whanganui farmer, Duncan and his good friend Craig. The four of them shared a desire to produce high quality hemp foods by providing critical infrastructure for the industry to develop here in New Zealand.

Hemp Connect was officially established in 2017 with the ambition to bring change to some of the systemic issues we as kiwis face, first and foremost the health of our people and planet.

Originally operating as a vertically integrated company, Hemp Connect played a key role in developing regional capability in the primary production of industrial hemp.  We now have the largest agricultural umbrella in the North Island and will continue to increase this capability as we enhance life across our nation and the world.

With primary production now in full swing, our focus has shifted to processing, education, and innovation.

The team at Hemp Connect have been stepping up a cottage industry ever since 2017 with a team that understands the entire value chain from farm to plate. Hemp Connect is driven by a simple but powerful purpose:

“We want to enhance lives through hemp. Individuals. Communities. Our country. Our planet.”

The Future

The immense potential of this plant is being realised across the world and New Zealand is starting to pay attention. Hemp’s potential for farmers, the environment and people’s health creates a bright future for the industry. Hemp Connect is currently exploring dietary supplements, value added foods, and nutraceuticals.

Hemp Connect has built a team with a passion for farming hemp, processing hemp and creating new markets for hemp with a focus on building an equitable value chain for all involved. Hemp isn’t only for “hippies” or alternative lifestyles, it is a product that will become a staple food for the families of New Zealand.

Ultimately, hemp will become a New Zealand export success. And Hemp Connect plans to be there when it does, with a focus on high value products.