Thursday, 01 January 2015 06:00

Making better use of flax

Written by Rural News Group

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NZ flax or Herekeke

Rotorua is set to host a unique forum this year on the innovative and commercial uses of New Zealand flax (Maori name; harakeke)

The forum aims to bring together people interested in the commercial potential of harakeke.

Commercial use of harakeke is not new in New Zealand; in fact, flax mills were in operation as early as the 1860s, with the last mill closing in 1985.

However, Sarah Heine, CEO of the Biopolymer Network, says that the aim of the forum is to cover the extensive work done on this plant over the last decade.

The forum will cover topics including species selection, plantations, industrial processing, muka (traditional fibre preparation) innovation, composites, natural skincare and other uses.

"This motivating forum will provide a platform for those seeking to commercialise an idea, concept or existing product and to allow discussion facilitated by Callaghan Innovation on the potential of harakeke and its future direction," says Heine.

The event is to be held on Friday, 20 February 2015 and is open to the public. Heine particularly encourages small business developers, researchers, scientists, natural skincare companies and anyone interested in the commercial opportunities of harakeke within New Zealand to come along.

People wanting to find out more about the NZ Flax (Harakeke) Forum and to register can go to:

NZ Flax (Harakeke) Forum - Biopolymer Network

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