Project Local: Webster's Tea

Introducing Webster’s Tea: A Taste Worth Pausing For

We’re brewing up something special across all five Volare stores – and it’s about to transform your tea time! Introducing Webster’s Tea, a Tauranga-based company with a passion for premium, organic loose-leaf blends that elevate the everyday cuppa. After a few taste tests, we knew these teas had that extra magic, and we’re thrilled to offer Webster’s selection in-store. To celebrate, we’re giving away two Webster’s Tea packs on Instagram, so be sure to enter for a chance to bring home some of their finest blends! 

Webster’s founder shared with us the journey of building a family-run tea business on the East Coast, along with his dedication to quality, sustainability, and bringing better tea to Kiwi tables. Read on for a peek behind the kettle at what makes Webster’s so unique!

Where does your passion for tea stem from, and how did Webster’s Tea come to life?

It all started in the Rocky Mountains of Canada, where I worked for a tea company and fell in love with the ritual of tea-making. Tea here in New Zealand had long been relegated to low-grade bags and dusty blends, and I knew it could be so much more. I started Webster’s Tea as a small operation in a shed on the outskirts of Tauranga, with a mission to raise the bar with premium, organic loose-leaf teas. Eight years later, we’re still growing but holding true to that mission every step of the way.

How has the journey been so far?

Every day feels like day one! It’s been eight years, but the excitement and the learning never seem to stop. This journey has been about growth, refining our blends, and connecting with people who, like us, appreciate a quality tea experience.

What values make Webster’s different from other NZ tea companies?

For us, it all comes down to taste. We’ve spent years perfecting our blends to make sure they offer the best flavour and aroma possible. But past the product, it’s about the experience. We’re a small, family-run business, and we’re here to make every cup of tea memorable, with a personal touch for every customer.

What’s your favourite part of living and working on the East Coast?

The community! There’s so much support from the people here in Tauranga, especially Te Puna, where our shop and operations are based. I was born and raised here, and after traveling around, I returned to appreciate Tauranga’s natural beauty, its beaches, rivers, and laid-back lifestyle. There’s no better place to call home.

What’s one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in business?

Perfectionism is often the enemy of progress. I used to obsess over every detail, but I’ve learned to step back and trust the process, even if it means embracing the occasional mistake. It’s all part of the journey, and every lesson learned pushes us forward.

Do you have a personal favourite blend?

Our Earl Grey has a special place in my heart. It’s more dessert-like than your traditional Earl Grey, and customers leave us the sweetest messages about how much they love it! Over the years, it’s been refined and perfected, and it’s our most popular tea by far.

How do you ensure the quality of your ingredients?

We source our tea from sustainable, organic farms worldwide, particularly in China and India, where the climate is ideal. In addition, we proudly offer two native NZ blends—Kawakawa and Mānuka—sourced locally from Waikato. Quality is everything to us, and we believe tea should be enjoyed as naturally as possible.

Any eco-friendly practices you’re particularly proud of?

All our teas are certified organic, and we prioritize sustainable farming. Avoiding pesticides and fertilizers keeps the tea pure and natural, which aligns with our philosophy that tea should remain true to its roots.

What exciting things are brewing for the future?

We’re excited to begin shipping to Australia and will soon launch subscription plans on our website. Plus, we have a limited-edition rooibos iced tea blend set to launch in November – it’s fruity, refreshing, and perfect for summer!

Join us in celebrating this new partnership and taste the difference of Webster’s Tea at any of our Volare stores (or grab a pack to take home with you). Here’s to better tea moments ahead – and don’t forget to enter the Instagram giveaway!