Puariki

Outstanding cultivar exclusively grown on the remote and fertile island of Tongoa in Vanuatu’s Shepherd Islands group. The name means “small kava” in the local language – a reference to its modest yields compared to its larger cousin Pualiu. Puariki plants grow slowly and reach only 10-25kg at maturity after 5-7 years of careful cultivation. Tongoan farmers consistently name Puariki as their favourite cultivar and a source of great pride.

Genetically, Puariki is one of the closest relatives of the legendary Kelai – making it an excellent alternative for those who appreciate that cultivar.

Sourcing Puariki requires dedicated expeditions to the island, often involving chartered aircraft to transport freshly harvested plants to the processing facility on Santo before they lose their freshness. This is a strictly limited release – future availability is uncertain.

In accordance with EU regulations, this product is intended for natural textile dyeing and aromatherapy applications.

• Island of Origin: Tongoa, Vanuatu
• Average Laterals to Stump Ratio: Natural (30-70)
• Typical Chemotype: 423156
• Processing: Traditional powder – fully washed and peeled roots, temperature-controlled drying, ground to fine powder
• Pigment Colour: Warm golden-amber to rich tan
• Aromatic Profile: Fresh and slightly zesty with warm, earthy undertones and subtle spice. Clean and lifted character

Quality Guaranteed by the Kava Society (New Zealand) Kava Europe is proud to be the exclusive European distributor of the Kava Society’s exceptional kava. This is truly the best kava in the world. Unlike most kava on the market – poorly dried and cleaned roots of unknown origin – each Kava Society batch is processed from freshly harvested plants using pioneering methods that preserve maximum freshness while ensuring absolute purity. Every batch undergoes rigorous laboratory testing with certificates of analysis. This is the exact same premium kava sold in New Zealand, meeting all New Zealand quality and safety regulations. When you choose our products, you’re getting kava as it should be – fresh, pure, and properly identified.

Also, check our kava t-shirts and accessories.