Down to Earth Organics

Down to Earth Organics has been part of the Taranaki community since 1979, earning its place as the region’s original organic shop and a trusted hub for holistic health and sustainable living. Founded by Dave Marshall and Keith Plummer, the store was built on a simple but enduring mission: to provide genuinely clean, ethical, and sustainably produced food and natural products that support both personal wellbeing and long-term care of the environment.

Over four decades on, Down to Earth Organics has grown into a true one-stop organic supermarket. The store stocks fresh organic produce, organic meats, wholefoods, plant-based alternatives, supplements, bespoke herbal remedies, sustainable cleaning products, clean beauty, personal care, and eco-focused homewares — all curated with intention rather than trend.

A defining feature of Down to Earth Organics is its uncompromising approach to sourcing. As demand for “natural” products has increased, so too has greenwashing across the industry. Every supplier is carefully vetted against the store’s high ethical, environmental, and social standards, and one of their qualified health practitioners personally checks every product before it reaches the shelves to ensure it meets strict “clean” criteria.

Local sourcing is prioritised wherever possible, with a strong focus on producers based around Mount Taranaki (the Maunga) and across Aotearoa. Notable local offerings include natural honey harvested in the Kaitake Ranges by co-founder Keith, fresh organic produce from Kaitake Farm, artisan bread from Bumblebee Bakery, and wāhine-led natural skincare brands such as Everkind and Tuttofare Beauty. The store also supports small-batch, wild-foraged and handcrafted makers like Woodsy Botanics.

Sustainability is woven through the customer experience. Down to Earth Organics operates a bulk refillery station for foods and household products, maintains jar and bottle libraries to support reuse, and offers a welcoming in-store café corner serving organic drinks and nourishing treats. Qualified naturopaths are often on hand to provide personalised advice and support, alongside an extensive in-store herbal dispensary.

Today, Down to Earth Organics continues as an intergenerational Taranaki icon — independent, community-rooted, and quietly rigorous in its standards. Whether you are deeply immersed in organic living or just beginning your journey, the store meets people where they are and walks alongside them toward a more natural, sustainable way of life.