This is the second blog post in our ‘Made in Auckland’ series, featuring local producers from the region.
Given that Ruth Wynne-Capstick and David Capstick hail from the most tea obsessed nation in the world — England — it’s fair to say they are more than qualified to discern the best brews.
Fortunately for connoisseurs, they have built a boutique tea business which is delighting New Zealanders with its charming range and ethical practices one cuppa at a time.
A very personal fertility journey in Greece, where Ruth was searching for caffeine free alternatives, inspired The Tea Thief. The experience sparked a desire to create a business that is beneficial for mind, body and soul.
Today The Tea Thief is committed to offering high-quality, organic teas and infusions sustainably farmed from the four corners of the world. The duo works with estates and growers that foster empowerment, allowing fairness and respect to all workers with a focus on improving the lives of the communities where products are grown.
Organic tea made in Auckland
As well as having strong ethics, innovation runs through the veins of the business thanks to Ruth and David’s passion for discovering new blends and herbs.
This translates to no synthetic or natural flavourings, no preservatives, no additives, no sweeteners and no senna.
As Ruth and David describe it best — there is no ‘BS’ in their teas.
The Tea Thief is proud to be a part of the We Love Local Auckland brand, noting the complementary fit.
We’re excited to be in the company of brands we really love and respect. These are brands that have the same philosophies as us – especially around sustainability.
Kiwis respect other Kiwis for starting their own businesses – it’s that sense of the ‘can do’ and ‘will do’ attitude. We buy locally ourselves and support other local companies because we know how hard it can be to get off the ground and keep going. We have found that small companies in New Zealand want to support each other and share what they know – they’re not defensive or secretive but open and willing to help each other succeed.
Auckland tea makers Ruth Wynne-Capstick and David Capstick
Auckland gift boxes with tea
We Love Local’s NZ gift boxes make it easy for anyone to share a message of care in a sustainable way. Featuring local and regional artisans, vintners, and food and drink producers, 1 percent from every sale is donated to New Zealand charities.
In Auckland, We Love Local supports (via One Percent Collective):
- Mixit (Auckland) — uses creativity to support young people from former refugee backgrounds to successfully integrate into our communities.
- Ngā Rangatahi Toa (Auckland) — empowers kids excluded from mainstream school to re-engage with education and build a brighter future for themselves and their whanau.
Find out more about Auckland tea business The Tea Thief, and visit the We Love Local store to purchase your very own Abundant Auckland gift box today.
