Growing a natural path to health, together
At Ora Pharm, we believe cannabinoid medicines can improve quality of life for people around the world. But turning that potential into reality takes partnerships, capability, and a shared vision.
That’s why we do more than just produce premium plant-based medicines – we’ve built a platform that connects New Zealand grown cannabis with the world. Through our subsidiary, NZ Grow Co., cultivators throughout Aotearoa are supported at every step of the value chain, from getting licensed right through to export. And for buyers, it’s one trusted place to access high quality New Zealand genetics and extracts from over two-thirds of the country’s cultivators.
We unite growers, elevate standards, and open global markets – helping more people access more medicine, and growing a thriving, sustainable New Zealand cannabis industry.
We believe a rising tide lifts all boats. When we work together, share expertise and raise expectations, we all succeed – and more patients benefit.
Care and generosity sit at the heart of everything we do, guided by the Māori principle of manaakitanga – caring for and uplifting others. It’s the mission that drives us.
About Ora Pharm
THE ORA PHARM STORY
For our founder and CEO, Zoe Reece, that mission is personal. While leading engineering and expansion at the world's largest legal cannabis company, she saw first-hand what safe, targeted cannabis products can do - both for the patients around her and in her own life. It's what brought her home to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018 to start Ora Pharm.
"I've had countless firsthand experiences of medicinal cannabis changing people's lives, like it changed mine"
Zoe says.
"Through Ora Pharm I can help more people take back control of their health and enjoy life to the fullest."
Built to Connect and Empower
For international buyers, that means one point of contact for an entire nation of trusted growers, and the flexibility to source how you need to - from bulk ingredients through to fully packaged products - along a seamless path from cultivation to export.
For our growers, it means being free to focus on what they do best, while NZ Grow Co takes care of licensing, processing, sales and export.
Our Place, Our Principles
From there, our footprint reaches the length of the country. Our EU-GMP processing facility sits in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, close to New Zealand's key distribution and shipping hubs. And in 2026 we're extending south, partnering with Murihiku Rūnanga in Hokonui to establish a processing hub for local cultivators.
Underpinning it all is one of the world's most respected regulatory environments. New Zealand's best-in-class standards guarantee premium quality medicinal produce, and streamlined export licensing means what we grow here can reach patients around the world - faster.
A GROWING FAMILY OF BRANDS
In June 2026 we welcomed Helius Therapeutics into the family, bringing a trusted prescription brand and EU-GMP manufacturing together with our grower network. Together with NZ Grow Co, this makes Ora Pharm New Zealand's largest locally owned, end-to-end medicinal cannabis supply chain.
For patients, it means reliable supply of the medicines they depend on. For growers, it means a clearer path to market, world-class testing and processing on their doorstep, and real opportunities to develop products and reach global buyers.
Everything we've built - the science, the standards, the nationwide grower network, the pathway to global markets - exists for the people we serve. For the grower who wants a fair way into a tough industry. For the patient who deserves consistent, quality medicine. For the partners and brands who need someone they can trust at this end of the world.
Our Promise: Excellence Through Expertise
We're a team of global experts, passionate about producing safe, effective medicinal cannabis products. Years of R&D, including advanced condition-specific formulations, means world-class expertise stands behind every stage of our production - from genetics through to finished product.
With GACP certification and New Zealand’s only EU-GMP certified processing facility, we hold ourselves to the highest global standards - guided, always, by the belief that better access to better medicine can improve lives around the world.
THE ORA PHARM STORY
For our founder and CEO, Zoe Reece, that mission is personal. While leading engineering and expansion at the world's largest legal cannabis company, she saw first-hand what safe, targeted cannabis products can do - both for the patients around her and in her own life. It's what brought her home to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018 to start Ora Pharm.
"I've had countless firsthand experiences of medicinal cannabis changing people's lives, like it changed mine"
Zoe says.
"Through Ora Pharm I can help more people take back control of their health and enjoy life to the fullest."
Built to Connect and Empower
For international buyers, that means one point of contact for an entire nation of trusted growers, and the flexibility to source how you need to - from bulk ingredients through to fully packaged products - along a seamless path from cultivation to export.
For our growers, it means being free to focus on what they do best, while NZ Grow Co takes care of licensing, processing, sales and export.
Our Place, Our Principles
From there, our footprint reaches the length of the country. Our EU-GMP processing facility sits in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, close to New Zealand's key distribution and shipping hubs. And in 2026 we're extending south, partnering with Murihiku Rūnanga in Hokonui to establish a processing hub for local cultivators.
Underpinning it all is one of the world's most respected regulatory environments. New Zealand's best-in-class standards guarantee premium quality medicinal produce, and streamlined export licensing means what we grow here can reach patients around the world - faster.
A GROWING FAMILY OF BRANDS
In June 2026 we welcomed Helius Therapeutics into the family, bringing a trusted prescription brand and EU-GMP manufacturing together with our grower network. Together with NZ Grow Co, this makes Ora Pharm New Zealand's largest locally owned, end-to-end medicinal cannabis supply chain.
For patients, it means reliable supply of the medicines they depend on. For growers, it means a clearer path to market, world-class testing and processing on their doorstep, and real opportunities to develop products and reach global buyers.
Everything we've built - the science, the standards, the nationwide grower network, the pathway to global markets - exists for the people we serve. For the grower who wants a fair way into a tough industry. For the patient who deserves consistent, quality medicine. For the partners and brands who need someone they can trust at this end of the world.
Our Promise: Excellence Through Expertise
We're a team of global experts, passionate about producing safe, effective medicinal cannabis products. Years of R&D, including advanced condition-specific formulations, means world-class expertise stands behind every stage of our production - from genetics through to finished product.
With GACP certification and New Zealand’s only EU-GMP certified processing facility, we hold ourselves to the highest global standards - guided, always, by the belief that better access to better medicine can improve lives around the world.
New Zealand - a world-class home for medicinal cannabis production
At Ora Pharm, we help international partners turn that advantage into yours. Through our NZ Grow Co nationwide network of licensed New Zealand growers, our EU-GMP certified manufacturing facility, and the FernMark mark of quality on every export, you get provenance your customers can trust, standards your markets demand, and supply you can rely on - all from one trusted partner, ready to help you launch and grow in markets around the world.
A Trusted Environment for Global Business
Ranked among the world's top 5 freest economies (Heritage Foundation)
17 Free Trade Agreements covering over 70% of global trade
Exports reaching more than 140 countries worldwide
Clinical speed - export-licence processing-time as short as 6 days
World class clinical trial infrastructure and favourable cost structure
Regulatory Excellence
Agricultural Leadership & Innovation
Clinical Speed
"You’re not taking a risk with an emerging market — you’re working with a world-class export partner."
Stuart Wilcox, Executive Chairman
If you’re thinking global – New Zealand is already there
Our home is the Waikato region – with rolling green hillsides, rich soils, and a proud agricultural heritage. It’s where our story started, and it’s where our commitment to the whenua (land) shows up in everything we do: solar energy, rainwater collection, predator control to protect the native forest on our land, and active conservation to support local biodiversity. Caring for people starts with caring for the land they live on.
From there, our footprint reaches the length of the country. Our EU-GMP processing facility sits in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, close to New Zealand’s key distribution and shipping hubs. And in 2026 we’re extending south, partnering with Murihiku Rūnanga in Hokonui to establish a processing hub for local cultivators.
Underpinning it all is one of the world’s most respected regulatory environments. New Zealand’s best-in-class standards guarantee premium quality medicinal produce, and streamlined export licensing means what we grow here can reach patients around the world – faster.
"When EU partners ask about barriers, we show how simple it is."
Zoe Reece, CEO
Meet Our Team
At the heart of Ora Pharm is a talented team of world-class experts dedicated to developing New Zealand’s finest medicinal cannabis products.
We’re united by a vision of empowering patients to reclaim their wellness and improve their quality of life - and by a commitment to connect and elevate New Zealand’s growers, helping the entire industry succeed on the global stage.
Our Board
Zoe Reece
Founder, Director & CEO
She was the Director of Engineering and Project Manager at Curaleaf, the largest cannabis company in the United States, where she learned how to develop and scale a successful cannabis business from end-to-end.
Zoe played a leading role in the company’s expansion by completing the design, planning, build, upgrade and start-up of more than 80 operational facilities in two years.
She was also involved in implementing legislation for Curaleaf in 16 states and helped to prepare license applications for other countries.
Her experience in the cannabis industry is invaluable to the growth and development of Ora Pharm in New Zealand and globally.
Executive Chair
He’s the former COO and SVP of Curaleaf, the largest cannabis operator in the US, and most recently led business expansion efforts in emerging markets.
Stuart brings more than 30 years of agriculture experience, more than 10 years of hydroponic cultivation experience, and 24 years’ experience of processing plants into oils and other value-added products.
Independant Director
She has played a key role as a member of marketing and executive leadership teams for global industry leaders adidas, L’Oréal, Bendon, Hallmark, Farmlands, Morphy Richards and also Macpac, where she transformed the brand over five years contributing to in excess of $80m in topline growth and was part of the executive team that led the company through two acquisitions.
In 2021 Nadia stepped from corporate roles into advisory services. She brings a strong network, along with the depth of skills and knowledge in strategy, marketing, sales, retail and digital to build a comprehensive platform for growth at Ora Pharm.
Zoe Reece
Zoe is a Civil/Structural Engineer and Manager with experience in the mining and construction sectors in New Zealand and Australia, and the cannabis industry in the United States.
She was the Director of Engineering and Project Manager at Curaleaf, the largest cannabis company in the United States, where she learned how to develop and scale a successful cannabis business from end-to-end.
Zoe played a leading role in the company’s expansion by completing the design, planning, build, upgrade and start-up of more than 80 operational facilities in two years.
She was also involved in implementing legislation for Curaleaf in 16 states and helped to prepare license applications for other countries.
Her experience in the cannabis industry is invaluable to the growth and development of Ora Pharm in New Zealand and globally.
Stuart Wilcox
Stuart is an international distribution and operations advisor with extensive experience in the cannabis industry in the United States.
He’s the former COO and SVP of Curaleaf, the largest cannabis operator in the US, and most recently led business expansion efforts in emerging markets.
Stuart brings more than 30 years of agriculture experience, more than 10 years of hydroponic cultivation experience, and 24 years’ experience of processing plants into oils and other value-added products.
Nadia Scott
With over 25 years of commercial marketing experience in Australasia, Europe and the US, Nadia’s track record of brand and revenue growth is exceptional.
She has played a key role as a member of marketing and executive leadership teams for global industry leaders adidas, L’Oréal, Bendon, Hallmark, Farmlands, Morphy Richards and also Macpac, where she transformed the brand over five years contributing to in excess of $80m in topline growth and was part of the executive team that led the company through two acquisitions.
In 2021 Nadia stepped from corporate roles into advisory services. She brings a strong network, along with the depth of skills and knowledge in strategy, marketing, sales, retail and digital to build a comprehensive platform for growth at Ora Pharm.
Blake Smith
Director & Chief Science Officer
As the Chief Scientific Officer at Zion, Blake has moved to the forefront of the industry in knowledge of extraction techniques, isolation of specific cannabinoids and their various therapeutic purposes.
As a father of a daughter with a predilection for seizures he is an active advocate of the healing medical benefits of cannabis and is constantly researching for the best prescriptive uses of the plant. In his free time, Blake enjoys spending time with his family and playing board games.
Brett O’Riley
Independant Director
On ABAC, Brett leads the workstream on climate change and trade, including green transitions, in the Sustainability Working Group and is a member of the ABAC voluntary carbon markets forum.
Brett was previously CEO of the EMA, New Zealand’s largest business association, and has held other CEO roles in the private and public sectors in New Zealand and Australia. He has been involved in many government boards and advisory groups since returning to New Zealand in 2009, across multiple domains including infrastructure, economic growth, technology, education, film commissioning, advanced manufacturing, sport, land information, and pandemic responses.
Brett is a graduate of Victoria University of Wellington, with post graduate qualifications from MIT and Singularity University.
Executive Advisor & Independent Director
Rod brings extensive governance experience as a board chair and audit and risk committee chair. He currently serves as Chair of both Harker Herbal Limited and Medella Health Limited. His expertise spans strategy, financial stewardship, risk management, quality and regulatory environments, international expansion, organisational transformation, and leadership succession. Rod is passionate about helping innovative New Zealand companies build sustainable capability, achieve commercial success, and create long-term value for shareholders, customers, and the communities they serve.
Blake Smith
Blake Smith is one of the nation's leading biochemists focused on the cultivation, processing and productising of cannabis and cannabis medicines.
As the Chief Scientific Officer at Zion, Blake has moved to the forefront of the industry in knowledge of extraction techniques, isolation of specific cannabinoids and their various therapeutic purposes.
As a father of a daughter with a predilection for seizures he is an active advocate of the healing medical benefits of cannabis and is constantly researching for the best prescriptive uses of the plant. In his free time, Blake enjoys spending time with his family and playing board games.
Brett O’Riley
Brett O’Riley is the Managing Director of advisory company OCGL. His governance roles include being a Board member of the Environmental Protection Authority, Executive Chair of infrastructure advisor GSD Corporation, President of international sporting federation World Bowls, and Vice President (Northern) of the New Zealand China Friendship Society. Brett is also an advisor to international companies including Tata Consultancy Services, SBS, and Voluntas, and several private companies.
On ABAC, Brett leads the workstream on climate change and trade, including green transitions, in the Sustainability Working Group and is a member of the ABAC voluntary carbon markets forum.
Brett was previously CEO of the EMA, New Zealand’s largest business association, and has held other CEO roles in the private and public sectors in New Zealand and Australia. He has been involved in many government boards and advisory groups since returning to New Zealand in 2009, across multiple domains including infrastructure, economic growth, technology, education, film commissioning, advanced manufacturing, sport, land information, and pandemic responses.
Brett is a graduate of Victoria University of Wellington, with post graduate qualifications from MIT and Singularity University.
Rod de Spong
Rod De Spong is an experienced director and senior executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, manufacturing, education, and health sectors. He previously served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Douglas Pharmaceuticals, one of New Zealand's leading pharmaceutical manufacturers, where he played a key role in the company's international growth, operational transformation, regulatory capability, and strategic development.
Rod brings extensive governance experience as a board chair and audit and risk committee chair. He currently serves as Chair of both Harker Herbal Limited and Medella Health Limited. His expertise spans strategy, financial stewardship, risk management, quality and regulatory environments, international expansion, organisational transformation, and leadership succession. Rod is passionate about helping innovative New Zealand companies build sustainable capability, achieve commercial success, and create long-term value for shareholders, customers, and the communities they serve.
Our team
Shreyas Srinivas
Kim Morrow
Leith Soutar
Chloe Newman
Morgan Emery Timms
Kervin Tiama
Alice Sharp
Eduardo Resende Junior
Let’s grow together
If you’re a grower - whether you’re already licensed or looking to enter the industry - our cultivation company, NZ Grow-Co. are here to support your success. NZGC helps horticulturalists navigate all aspects of growing and processing medicinal cannabis. If you’re just starting out and looking to set up and get licensed, or if you’ve been cultivating cannabis for a while, NZGC can help at every step from seed to sale.
As part of our network, you’ll benefit from expert support, premium genetics, post-harvest processing, lab testing, and global market access. NZ Grow-Co. can guide you every step of the way.
"We’re here to build great partnerships - with people who care about doing things the right way, and making a real difference. If that sounds like you, we’d love to have a conversation,"
Zoe Reece, CEO.
Cultivators
If you’re a grower - whether you’re already licensed or looking to enter the industry - we’d love to hear from you. We help horticulturalists navigate the licensing process and set up for success.
As part of our network, you’ll benefit from expert support, premium genetics, post-harvest processing and global market access - with Ora Pharm guiding you every step of the way.
Brands and Buyers
If you’re an international buyer or brand, we can help you access the best of New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis production and opportunities. Our products range from premium-grade biomass, to API and contract manufacture of finished products.
New Zealand’s export licensing rules and regulatory environment provide a perfect opportunity for global brands to conduct clinical trials cost effectively, and access global markets that may not be available to you from your home base.
Whether you’re looking to source products you can trust or expand your brand into new territories, we’re here to help.
Latest MEDIA
New export opportunities as a result of Ora Pharm’s purchase of Helius Therapeutics
Ora Pharm acquires Helius Therapeutics, creating New Zealand’s largest integrated medicinal cannabis and hemp supply chain for local and export markets.
Beyond the Green Rush: Building Trust, Standards, and Global Alliances in Cannabis
Markets are maturing, stigma is fading, and conservative governments can be partners—if we speak their language. Here’s a practical plan for global standards, doctor education, and policy alignment that puts patients first.
Ora Pharm Earns FernMark Status — A Win for All Our Growers
Ora Pharm has been awarded the FernMark Licence, a prestigious New Zealand government trademark that certifies local ownership, regulatory compliance, and product provenance, enhancing the credibility of its medicinal cannabis products internationally.
New export opportunities as a result of Ora Pharm’s purchase of Helius Therapeutics
Ora Pharm acquires Helius Therapeutics, creating New Zealand’s largest integrated medicinal cannabis and hemp supply chain for local and export markets.
Beyond the Green Rush: Building Trust, Standards, and Global Alliances in Cannabis
Markets are maturing, stigma is fading, and conservative governments can be partners—if we speak their language. Here’s a practical plan for global standards, doctor education, and policy alignment that puts patients first.
Ora Pharm Earns FernMark Status — A Win for All Our Growers
Ora Pharm has been awarded the FernMark Licence, a prestigious New Zealand government trademark that certifies local ownership, regulatory compliance, and product provenance, enhancing the credibility of its medicinal cannabis products internationally.
Medicinal cannabis exports: Zoë Reece in Kiwi trade mission to multibillion-dollar European market
Dairy, wool, wine, beef and … medicinal cannabis? Some exporters hope the medicinal cannabis industry could get a boost from a new trade mission to Europe. Zoë Reece is flying out to Europe tomorrow with a New Zealand Trade and Enterprise NZTE trade mission.
Boosting Business with New Medicinal Cannabis Regulations
These regulatory changes are a game-changer for Ora Pharm. By providing greater flexibility in product development and quality control, we can innovate more freely and respond more effectively to market demands. The ability to export and import cannabis materials for research and testing significantly enhances our capacity to collaborate internationally and improve our product offerings.
Ora Pharm Introduces New Service Offering to Enhance New Zealand’s Medicinal Cannabis Industry
Ora Pharm is proud to announce the launch of its new plant processing and export services for other medicinal cannabis cultivators across the country. This strategic move is set to lower barriers to entry and improve profitability for medicinal cannabis growers by reducing costs associated with plant processing, streamlining the export process, ensuring rigorous quality control, and improving overall efficiency.