Our Story
Kats Flora has been a part of the Otorohanga community for many years. While our website has been our online home since 2017, our passion for rare plants and the craft of artisan pottery goes back much further.
Hi everyone, I’m so glad you popped in for a look.
Kat’s Flora started because I wanted a challenge—something truly "for me." Stepping into the world of self-employment has certainly provided that! It’s a journey that allows me to combine my lifelong passion for plants with a love for handmade craft.
I’ve spent years exploring different creative outlets—from mosaics and resin art to pressed flowers and pottery. Eventually, I found myself rebuilding my succulent and cactus collection and realised I could pair them with my own pottery to create my small business.
What you’ll find at Kat’s Flora:
- Unique Greenery: Succulents, cacti, and unusual specimens.
- Indoor Favourites: A curated range including Hoya, Peperomia, and Philodendron.
- Garden Essentials: Bulbs, aquatic plants, and seasonal outdoor varieties.
- Handmade Heart: My own pottery and repurposed items turned into unique planters.
- Plant Care: Quality plastic pots, insecticides, and the right accessories to help your plants thrive.
My Experience
I’ve had my hands in the dirt since I was ten years old; a life without plants is simply unimaginable to me. Over the years, I’ve backed up that hands-on passion with formal training, earning certificates in Horticulture, Organic Gardening, and Garden Design.
A real highlight was completing my Horticulture Certificate at the Growing Spectrum training facility, followed by a stint working in their propagation department. That mix of formal study and professional nursery experience gives me the confidence to offer you not just plants, but the right advice to go with them.
Crafting has always been the other side of my coin. I first picked up pottery when my kids were young, and I’m always eager to join a workshop or figure out a new technique. I love the "aha!" moment of learning something new, and I enjoy sharing those insights with others even more.
A Bit of Personal Context
For those who don’t know me personally, I live with severe hearing loss. I’ve worn hearing aids since my 40s, and in 2021, I underwent surgery for a Cochlear Implant. While it was life-changing, I still navigate challenges in noisy environments or crowded conversations.
Entering the workforce after raising my children proved difficult due to these hearing barriers. This is a huge part of why Kat’s Flora is so important to me—it’s a business built on my own terms, where I can connect with people one-on-one.
Getting in touch: Because I find phone calls tricky, the best way to reach me is via email or text. This ensures I don't miss any of your questions and can get back to you properly!
If you’re interested in learning more about Cochlear devices and the support available in NZ, I highly recommend the
The Team
"The Team" is a bit of a rotating cast! My husband, Wayne, is incredibly resourceful; we’re constantly bouncing ideas off each other. He’s the muscle behind my plant stands and the tunnel houses where the magic happens.
I’m also lucky to have wonderful friends who lend a hand during market days.
Then, of course, there are the "helpers" who are often more of a hindrance (but we love them anyway): Buddy the Ragdoll, Sasha the Labrador, and Iddie, the world's smoochiest cat.
Grown in Tihiroa, Otorohanga
Every plant I sell is grown or propagated right here on-site in the Waikato.
Most of my stock starts from my own established collection, with new varieties added to my website only when they’re ready to share with you.
This is my happy place. Looking out east toward the Mamaku Plateau—and catching a glimpse of snow on the mountains on a clear day—is the perfect backdrop for growing beautiful things.
View from our place looking out towards the Mamakaus.
| Top |